Cellar break-ins outnumber home break-ins in Austria

Break-ins and attempted break-ins in cellars now outnumber those in homes in Austria, ORF reports, citing crime statistics. A survey published Wednesday by the Kuratorium für Verkehrssicherheit (KfV) found that 9% of Austrian households experienced a break-in or an attempt last year.

Of the incidents covered by the survey, 41% involved cellars or garages, about as many involved living spaces, and 11% involved cellar compartments in multi-apartment buildings. Respondents could select more than one answer.

Crime statistics, which include only cases reported to police, show that break-ins in living spaces have fallen while break-ins in cellars, including attempts, have risen. Ten years ago, the pattern was reversed. The KfV says burglars now avoid homes to reduce the risk of confrontation, while cellars are often among the least-secured parts of residential buildings.

Because break-ins are less likely to be solved than other offences, the KfV emphasises prevention. It advises residents to lock doors, close windows and avoid storing bicycles, e-scooters and tools in cellars, as these items are often stolen. If they are kept there, they should be secured with a high-quality lock.

The KfV also recommends keeping an inventory of items stored in cellar compartments, including photographs and serial numbers, and ensuring the compartments cannot be seen into. Motion detectors, alarm and video systems, and regular checks of cellar areas are also recommended.