As the days get shorter and darkness arrives always earlier house burglaries are on the rise. Burglars strike every six hours in the canton of Lucerne. The police are now increasing their presence in neighbourhoods. An expert explains what perpetrators are after and how you can protect yourself.
What sounds like a threat has long been a reality for many businesses: farm shops, commercial enterprises and even homes are increasingly becoming targets for thieves. The perpetrators seem to proceed in a targeted manner, often at night or on weekends when there is little activity. Some groups scout out their targets in advance – others strike spontaneously when the opportunity arises.
Last year, the Lucerne police recorded 1,524 burglaries – an increase of 41 per cent over the previous year. The canton has not seen such figures for years. In the six years prior to that, there were an average of around 1,080 cases. During the pandemic, burglary figures were at a low – now the trend seems to have reversed. Experts speak of a catch-up effect, as international gangs are once again able to move more freely.
Around a third of all burglaries in residential buildings in 2024 took place in the city of Lucerne. Perpetrators take advantage of the anonymity of the city because they are less conspicuous there. Emmen, Kriens, Horw and Ebikon follow far behind. In contrast, many smaller towns record only one to five burglaries in residential buildings per year. However, many burglaries occur along motorways. Rothenburg is one example. Many of the cases involve commercial buildings. Their easy accessibility makes such neighbourhoods attractive to perpetrators. They want to get there quickly and leave again quickly. The pattern is clear: the more densely populated and commercial a municipality is, the higher the risk of burglary. On a positive note, not a single burglary was recorded in twelve Lucerne municipalities in 2024.
Another unpleasant trend is the rise of home-jackings (i.e. burglaries that occur when the occupants are in the house), although to date these have mostly occurred in the French speaking part of the country. To protect yourself do not buzz people into your building without first checking who they are and whether they have a valid reason to be there.
Protecting Your Home from Burglars: Smart Strategies That Work
Keeping your home safe from burglars doesn’t require a fortress—just a few smart habits, some tech upgrades, and a bit of planning. Here’s how to make your home a tough target for intruders.
1. Lock Up—Always
It sounds basic, but many burglaries happen through unlocked doors and windows. Always lock all entry points, even if you’re stepping out for just a few minutes. Reinforce doors with deadbolts and consider installing window locks or security film for added resistance.
2. Light Up the Night
Burglars love the cover of darkness. Install motion-activated lights around entrances, driveways, and backyards. Smart floodlights with cameras, like those from Ring or Arlo, not only illuminate but also record suspicious activity.
3. Don’t Broadcast Your Absence
Avoid posting vacation plans or check-ins on social media until you’re back. An empty home is an open invitation. Pause mail and package deliveries or ask a neighbor to collect them so your home doesn’t look abandoned.
4. Make It Look Like Someone’s Home
Use timers or smart plugs to turn lights, TVs, or radios on and off throughout the day. This creates the illusion of activity inside. Burglars are less likely to target a home that seems occupied.
5. Invest in a Security System
A visible security system—whether it’s a full setup or just a doorbell camera—can be a major deterrent. Choose systems with remote monitoring, mobile alerts, and loud alarms. Even fake cameras or alarm signs can make burglars think twice.
6. Strengthen Entry Points
Upgrade to solid-core or metal doors, install strike plates, and use longer screws in hinges. Reinforced windows or security film can slow down or prevent break-ins. Don’t forget to secure sliding doors with a rod or dowel in the track.
7. Hide Valuables Wisely
Avoid placing expensive items like TVs or jewelry in plain sight from windows. Store valuables in a safe that’s bolted to the floor or wall. Avoid obvious hiding spots like under the mattress or in the sock drawer.
8. Get to Know Your Neighbors
A tight-knit neighborhood is one of the best defenses. Neighbors can spot unusual activity and alert you or the authorities. Consider joining or starting a neighborhood watch group.
9. What If a Break-In Happens?
If you suspect a burglary, don’t enter the house. Call the police immediately (dial 117). Once safe, document what’s missing, notify your insurance provider, and take steps to prevent future incidents.
The police are happy to give you free security advice, simply fill this form out.
Report the following to the police immediately by calling 117:
- Unknown persons moving conspicuously around the neighbourhood.
- Unfamiliar vehicles driving slowly or searching the streets.
- Noises such as breaking glass or splintering wood.
Final Thought: Burglars look for easy targets. By making your home appear occupied, well-lit, and secure, you significantly reduce your risk. Prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath.
Source: Luzerner Zeitung, safehome.org
