In the first half of 2025, 381 burglaries and 124 vehicle thefts were reported to the Louth Garda Division. Following the latest CSO data, Gallagher, one of Ireland’s largest insurance brokers, is urging homeowners and motorists in Louth to remain alert as the darker evenings of autumn set in.
Geraldine Kelly, Head of Personal Lines at Gallagher, said the longer nights create opportunities for criminals and stressed the importance of maintaining home security. “As evenings draw in, we encourage homeowners to take practical steps such as installing monitored alarms, using smart lighting and CCTV, and keeping doors and windows locked,” she said. “Using timers to switch lights on can make a property appear occupied, and keeping garage doors locked prevents easy access. If away for long periods, ask a neighbour to check the house and never leave spare keys under mats. Preventative measures can save both financial loss and emotional distress.”
Kelly also advised reviewing home insurance policies to ensure adequate cover. “Many households haven’t updated their contents insurance in years, leaving valuable items like laptops, TVs, and home tech underinsured,” she added.
The insurer also noted that vehicle-related crime tends to rise during darker months, although CSO figures show a slight year-on-year decrease in thefts. Kelly said motorists should remain vigilant: “Always park in well-lit or secure areas, use steering wheel locks, and never leave valuables visible. For keyless cars, store fobs in signal-blocking pouches to prevent digital theft. Installing alarms or GPS trackers adds protection, and ensuring all doors and windows are closed before locking is essential. While precautions help reduce risk, keeping car insurance up to date remains the best safeguard.”
Gallagher in Ireland’s Home Security Tips:
- Install a monitored alarm system for continuous protection.
- Keep doors locked and windows secured – even when at home.
- Use motion-activated exterior lighting to deter intruders.
- Keep valuables out of sight from windows.
- Install security cameras
- Join neighbourhood watch programmes.
- Trim shrubs to remove potential hiding places.
- Use timers on lights, TVs, or radios to create the illusion of occupancy when away.
- Avoid sharing travel plans on social media until you return.
- Elderly people, or those living alone, can be particularly vulnerable. Additional steps include fitting a door viewer and chain, joining a Community Alert scheme, keeping emergency numbers handy, and ensuring a neighbour has your contact details.
Gallagher in Ireland’s Car Theft Prevention Tips:
- Park in secure, well-lit areas and use steering wheel locks.
- Never leave keys in the car and keep key fobs in a signal-blocking pouch.
- Install alarms, immobilisers, and GPS trackers for added security.
- Always lock your doors, close windows fully, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
- Avoid leaving expensive belongings or equipment in your vehicle unnecessarily.
- Leave an empty glove box open to show there is nothing to steal.
- Be mindful of car keys at home and avoid leaving them near doors or windows.
