Beware Xmas burglars, warns insurance federation
Householders have been warned to be extra vigilant in a bid to prevent burglaries this Christmas.
The Irish Insurance Federation said homes left empty over the festive period were particularly vulnerable to burglary.
It said all householders planning to go away on holiday should ask a neighbour to keep an eye on the house, should cancel all planned deliveries and should not leave spare keys in obvious places.
The Federation also warned householders to keep their homes well-heated to prevent burst pipes as temperatures are expected to plummet in the coming days.
