How safe do we feel in our homes?

Carried out by Irish firm Peopl Insurance, the survey found that the majority (96%) of those who said the feel safe in their homes fall within the over 55 age bracket, with 30% of these saying they feel “very safe”.

Ages 25-34 were least likely to say they feel “very safe” at just 15%.

Only 3% of all surveyed said they have plans to enhance security measures to make their home feel safer.

Paul Walsh, CEO of Peopl Insurance, said: “It is very reassuring that so many of us feel safe in our homes. Your home is the one place in the world where you should absolutely feel safe.”

Mr Walsh said physical solutions available such as locks, burglar alarms, front door cameras, or sensor lights can definitely make a home feel more secure, however, it’s likely the less tangible factors like good neighbours and a sense of community that really make people feel protected in their homes.

He continued: “It seems that those approaching or in retirement have a great sense of security in their home and it’s likely these people have been living in the same place for many years, so they know the area and the people in it.”

Turning to those who feel unsafe at home, Mr Walsh said it was surprising that the younger age groups seem to fall into this category and said it may be connected to renting.

“Though the proportion of individuals expressing a lack of safety is relatively small, one might have expected that the older age group would exhibit a lesser sense of security,” said Mr Walsh.

He added: “Surprisingly, this is not the case. In reality, one out of every ten individuals between the ages of 25 and 34 don't feel safe, in contrast to a mere 3% of those aged 55 and older. Could it be possible that individuals who rent their homes are less likely to experience a similar level of security as those who own their homes?”

The latest CSO recorded crime statistics show that burglaries have dropped by 8% in the past 12 months in Ireland. The volume of aggravated burglaries increased by 5% in the past year while non-aggravated burglaries fell by 10%.

Mr Walsh continued: “While the most recent crime data reports an annual decrease in burglary incidents, the tally of recorded burglary and associated offences still surpasses 9,000.

“As the clocks go back and the darker evenings set in, it is important to review your home insurance policy and consider taking additional steps to safeguard your home for the winter months ahead.”