Mossos advise on home security during holidays

Summer burglary risk prompts police advice

The Mossos d'Esquadra, Catalonia's regional police force, are urging residents to take preventive measures when leaving home for holidays, particularly during summer months when property crimes increase. Empty homes are especially vulnerable as criminals target unoccupied properties with greater ease. According to data from the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, burglaries in residential areas have historically risen during holiday periods, with specific operations launched by the Mossos to counter the trend. In April 2026, the force's 'Kanpai Silent' operation led to a 23.5% reduction in break-ins compared to the same period in 2025, demonstrating the effectiveness of targeted enforcement.

Key steps to secure your home

The Mossos recommend several practical steps to protect homes while away. Residents should ensure all doors and windows are securely locked and avoid fully closing shutters or blinds, which can signal the property is unoccupied. It is also advised not to leave messages on answering machines indicating absence. Households should arrange for a trusted person to collect post regularly and periodically check the property. Leaving mail piled up is a visible sign of an empty home. Homeowners are also warned not to hide spare keys outside, as this is among the first places burglars search.

Do not share holiday plans on social media or with strangers. This information can be exploited by opportunistic criminals.

For those with alarm systems, the Mossos advise ensuring they are activated at all times, even when sleeping, using partial activation modes where available. Alarms should be connected to a monitoring centre that can alert police in case of intrusion. Installation must comply with legal requirements and be carried out by authorised companies.

Physical and digital precautions

Residents are encouraged to reinforce security with burglar-resistant doors and window grilles. A recommended lock should have at least three anchoring points – top, bottom and side. Installing motion-sensitive or timed interior and exterior lighting can also deter intruders, especially in isolated homes. An up-to-date inventory of valuable items, including make, model and serial numbers, is advised. This helps in identification and recovery if a burglary occurs. Such documentation should be stored securely, separate from the items themselves. If suspicious activity is noticed near a home – such as unfamiliar individuals attempting entry or signs of forced access – the public should call emergency services on 112 without delay. In the event of a break-in, residents must not touch anything and report the incident immediately to the Mossos.

Reporting a burglary

Victims of burglary can file a report at any Mossos d'Esquadra police station, which remain open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. A personal identification document is required. It is helpful to provide a detailed list of stolen items, including as many identifying details as possible. More information on filing a crime report is available via the official Mossos d'Esquadra portal. Police stations can be located using the Mossos station finder.

Primary sources: ${rpb.dspace.name}, Pere Boqué, mossos.gencat.cat, interior.gencat.cat, Ramon, Exa. Reported by segre.com, Germán González, España. Ministerio del Interior, Laura Serrat, metropoliabierta.elespanol.com, Cesc Maideu, Pere Roca Soler, Redacción, beteve.cat.