Warning: Increased Burglaries in Switzerland during Winter

As the weather gets colder and nights become longer, experts from insurance firm Mobilière are cautioning that the number of burglaries in Switzerland tends to rise. This information builds upon a previous study released by the Federal Statistical Office in the summer, highlighting a significant increase in burglary rates across Switzerland last year, affecting some Swiss regions more than others.

2022 Records a 14% Surge in Burglaries

According to information provided to Blick, winter emerges as the peak season for burglaries in Switzerland. The extended and darker nights widen the window of opportunity for burglars, and with many residents going on holiday between Christmas and New Year, it becomes an ideal time for unwanted visits.

Moreover, the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) reported a 14% increase in the number of police-recorded burglaries in 2022 compared to 2021. Authorities attribute this rise to the relaxation of COVID regulations, allowing burglars to carry out their illegal activities more frequently as people spent less time at home than during the restrictions.

In 2022, Switzerland recorded a total of 35,732 burglaries, with Canton Zurich being the most significantly affected, reporting 6,935 cases. Vaud followed with 3,334, Aargau with 3,145, Bern with 3,126, and St. Gallen with 1,729. On the other hand, Appenzell Innerrhoden had only 20 recorded burglaries, Uri had 69, and Nidwalden reported 78.

Preferred Times for Burglaries: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays

A recent study by Mobilière also identified certain days of the week when burglaries are more common in Switzerland. The insurance firm found that incidents are most likely to occur on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. On average, thieves make off with goods worth 4,200 francs.

Protecting Against Burglaries: Swiss Police Recommendations

In response to Blick, Swiss police provided the following recommendations for those concerned about burglaries:

1. Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked before going to bed or leaving home. Closing blinds is not sufficient to prevent burglars from entering through a window.
2. Install a temporary light source that turns on and off at intervals during the day when you are away.
3. Exercise caution about sharing personal information on the internet, as wrongdoers may determine when you are not at home based on your online activity.
4. Consider joining a neighborhood watch program if available.
5. Install an alarm system.
6. Ask neighbors to collect your mail while you are away to prevent it from being taken by thieves.