Although break-ins are on the decline in the canton of Geneva, the winter season brings with it an increased risk of burglary. When the days get shorter, burglars are more likely to notice if houses or flats are unoccupied. Consequently, so-called “twilight burglaries” soar.

To assist the population in the fight against this type of crime, the Swiss police have launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of the risks of burglary and of appropriate preventive measures.

The risk of burglary can be considerably reduced by taking some simple preventive steps:

• Simulate someone being at home by putting lights on a timer or programming your TV/radio.
• Call 117 immediately if you notice any suspicious behaviour, including at your neighbours’.
• Lock your doors, even if you are away for a short time.
• Inform your neighbours if you are away for an extended period. Their watchful eyes can help.
• Ask for advice. Many police forces and private companies have specialised security advisers.

Further information on burglary prevention can be found (in German, French and Italian) on the following websites: www.unis-contre-le-cambriolage.ch and https://www.skppsc.ch/fr/sujets/cambriolage/ (Swiss Crime Prevention website).