Proper protection against burglaries

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During the dark season, the number of burglaries increases significantly. Here are the most important tips for more security and protection in your own four walls.

closing doors

Always keep the front door(s) closed but not locked so that the fire brigade can still get in. If an entrance door is broken, call technical customer service. You should always lock cellar doors and apartment doors - even if you leave the apartment for a short time. On the first floor or on the raised ground floor, this also applies to lockable balcony doors and windows.

Speaking instead of opening

Use the intercom, the peephole and, if available, the locking bar or chain in front of the door and do not let anyone simply into your apartment. If you are unsure, ask your neighbors for help. Important: HOWOGE always announces in good time when and if someone needs to come into the apartment (e.g. to maintain the smoke detectors).

Be vigilant together

Burglars rarely come spontaneously. The place of the break-in is usually scouted out beforehand. Therefore, observe the people in the house and yard. Speak to anyone who acts suspiciously in a friendly manner: "Can I help you?" Also pay attention to older people in the house. If possible, exchange phone numbers with neighbors to warn and inform each other.

Recognize tricks and react correctly

Only those who know the tricks of the burglar gangs can react accordingly and inform the police and the people in the house. So pay attention and watch out...

Modern identification marks: a piece of plastic, paper, advertising or toothpick wedged between the door and the frame; a transparent adhesive strip over the door lock, a thin thread in front of the door or objects in front of the apartment door. If these marks are still there the next day, burglars know that no one is at home. Thieves' marks(rather rare): scratched or painted marks that burglars use to inform each other about the state of the house (see examples below).

Bild –

There is nothing here

Bild –

There is money here

Bild –

Vicious dog!

Use police advice

The Berlin police offer free advice on protection against burglary at the Burglary Protection Advice Center.

You can find out more about this topic here.