Burglary protection

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Open windows make crimes easier for burglars

Burglary protection measures are intended to prevent unauthorized entry into a locked room or area. A good burglar protection is achieved through a coordinated interaction of mechanical and electronic security technology, correct behavior as well as personnel and organizational measures.

Legal situation

A particularly serious case of theft or burglary according to § 243 , § 244 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) exists if the offender is in a building, an office or business premises , in another enclosed room or in Breaking in or entering an apartment, using the wrong key or another tool that is not intended for proper opening, or hiding in the apartment.

Anyone who breaks into Switzerland is liable to prosecution according to Art. 139 StGB for theft , trespassing and / or damage to property. In Austria one commits a criminal offense according to § 129 StGB ( theft by break-in or with weapons ) .

Burglary statistics

Austria 2018

In Austria there were a total of 472,981 reported burglaries, vehicle thefts and pickpockets in 2018. That means a decrease of 7.4 percent compared to the previous year. As far as burglaries in apartments and houses are concerned, the decline since 2017 has even been 17.1 percent. At the same time, the clearance rate for burglaries has improved to 18.4 percent, while this rate was only 14.5 percent in the previous year.

However, there has been a significant increase in the area of ​​trick fraud. With trick fraud, unauthorized persons use tricks to gain access to other people's apartments or houses in order to rob them. There has been an increase in reported cases of 57.3 percent since 2015. The so-called "grandchildren" or "nephew" trick has occurred particularly often, in which people pretend to be relatives of their victims. In this way, you gain access to the respective living area in order to carry out an indirect break-in.

DACH region 2013

The number of “burglaries” rose in 2013 in Germany by 3.7 percent to 149,500 cases. The trend continued in 2014, a total of 152,000 reported burglaries and thus a record value. Above all, the "break-ins of day homes" (burglaries during the daytime) rose by 5.8 percent. Almost 44 percent of home break-ins in Germany now take place during the day. Most day-to-day home break-ins occur in large cities. According to the 2013 police crime statistics, however, the percentage of break-ins has also steadily decreased. The police conclude here on the improvements in security measures in the private sector and the corresponding preventive actions by the police. Over 40 percent (2013) of burglaries in Germany get stuck in the experimental stage, also because of security equipment. Inquirers receive individual advice on burglary protection and security from the police advice centers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. While the number of burglaries in Austria has continuously declined in recent years, it increased by 7% from 2012 to 2013 to 16,548. In Switzerland, too, the number of burglaries has risen steadily in recent years (2012: by + 16% to 73,714), whereby in Switzerland there are 932 burglaries for every 100,000 inhabitants, which is the highest figure in Europe. The appropriate burglar protection measures are based on the conditions of the building and the risk factors. In 41.8 percent of the cases, intruders gain access to single-family houses via balcony and patio doors and in apartment buildings. In 46.9 percent of the cases, this is done through the apartment door. In commercial buildings, the perpetrators mostly (35.5 percent) get inside through (shop) windows. Overall, floors, basements and laundry rooms became crime scenes in 2013 (+11.2 percent increase over the previous year). The following measures, for example, can hinder or prevent break-ins:

activities

Behavioral measures

Simple behavioral measures can also contribute to efficient burglary protection. One of these measures, for example the presence of protection , such as door viewers , door chains or intercoms . He can help residents decide whether or not to let a person in. In addition, the presence simulation should serve to protect against a break- in in the event of temporary absence . There are no general guidelines for correct behavior in a burglary situation. A confrontation with the burglar is rare. Burglars caught in the act often turn violent just to find an escape route. In general, however, the specialist agencies recommend that you remain calm in a burglary situation and that you first call the police. Furthermore, one is advised to leave the house or apartment as far as possible unnoticed and to hide with a neighbor until the police arrive.

Mechanical safeguards

Mechanical security technology are the essential prerequisite for effective burglary protection. They slow down or prevent the break-in and / or make the break-in more noise. Electronic security devices such as intrusion alarm systems, on the other hand, do not prevent a break-in, but only report it.

Depending on the resistance class, a security door can make break-in considerably more difficult or even almost impossible. Doors can be subsequently secured with beam locks , cross bolt locks and box locks . Rear hooks or hinge side safeguards prevent a door from being forced open on the hinge side or from being lifted out of the hinges (so-called lift-out protection). The security lock can be additionally protected by anti-drilling protection or protective fittings . It is also advisable to purchase a security card for the lock cylinder , which legitimizes reorders of keys and thus offers additional security.

Burglar- resistant window fittings , which are equipped with mushroom-shaped pins and with the appropriate locking parts, provide a high level of lever protection, are called mushroom locks .

Built-in burglar alarm

The resistance classes ER1 (new designation RC1N according to EN 1627–1630) (hardly any burglar resistance) to ER6 (new designation RC6 according to EN 1627–1630) (high burglary resistance) are assigned to tested burglar- resistant roller shutter systems. Laminated safety glass ("VSG") is laminated glass: a plastic film connects two panes of glass. Barred windows also protect against burglars.

Basement or light shafts are frequent entry points. Light shaft security systems make break-ins difficult, for example a grating fixed from below .

Political support

In contrast to the Netherlands, standardized burglary protection for new buildings is not required by law in Germany .

At a conference in 2015, the federal and state interior ministers were unable to agree on such a demand following criticism from the interior ministers from Hesse and Bavaria. However, a corresponding measure should be examined. According to studies, around two thirds of all German apartments are not specially secured against break-ins.

Electronic surveillance

Electronic monitoring (often incorrectly referred to as electronic security technology or electronic security) is used to identify or report dangers (e.g. in the event of an attack or break-in) or to monitor locations. Although they do not prevent break-ins, their reporting effect increases the risk of burglars being discovered. Potential perpetrators can be often discouraged from the outset our experience when they find that a burglar alarm system (EMA, called Alarm) or a robbery alarm system (I & HAS) installed. They are used to detect and report break-ins and alert security services or the police in the event of an attack. Observing the inevitability of an intruder alarm system reduces false alarms to a minimum. The reporting can be done by loud signal transmitters (sirens) to the immediate environment or as a "silent alarm" by means of a transmission device to previously specified (stored) target numbers. An alarm that is used exclusively to deter the perpetrator by means of an acoustic or visual signal is called an external alarm. If a security service or another number is called when the alarm system is triggered, one speaks of a remote alarm . Video surveillance systems are used for observation with optical-electronic devices. A large number of laws define who may or must use video surveillance and under what conditions. The admissibility of video surveillance depends specifically on who uses it. A general distinction is made between private and state video surveillance.

Other measures

A combination of mechanical and electronic security increases burglary protection. There are also complementary measures; this includes an access control . This controls access using a set of rules defined by the operator, so that only authorized persons have access to the areas in buildings or protected areas on a site that have been released for them.

Burglars often avoid well-lit properties. That is why outdoor lighting systems - with or without motion detectors - have proven to be a deterrent. Fences and walls can prevent people from entering or leaving an area. Safes protect money, valuables or other items from theft and / or fire. A previously performed collection of valuables (photos, list of valuables) makes it easier to find stolen objects after a theft. A watchdog has the task of guarding an area independently, i.e. without the direct influence of a dog handler. Objects can also be protected by a guard and security service . Since the 1980s, the housekeeping service has also spread in Germany. Well-functioning neighborhood help can also reduce the likelihood of a break-in.

Burglary protection standards

There are various national and European standards for burglar resistance. Among other things, they regulate requirements, test methods and classification for determining resistance. Important standards are explained below. The European series of standards EN 1627–1630 describes requirements and classifications, defines the static and dynamic loads and describes manual break-in attempts.

DIN EN 1627: Test standard for windows, doors, curtain walls, lattice elements, closures

Logo of the German Institute for Standardization DIN EN 1627
Area Construction
title Doors, windows, curtain walls, lattice elements and closures - burglar resistance - requirements and classification
Latest edition 2011-09
ISO -

Burglar resistance requirements and classification: EN 1627 for doors, balcony doors and windows has been in effect since 1999, initially as a preliminary standard ENV 1627: 1999, and since April 2006 also as a draft standard prEN 1627: 2006-04. In Germany, the preliminary standard was published as DIN V ENV 1627: 1999 and the draft standard as E DIN EN 1627: 2006-04. The European standard EN 1627: 2011 has been in force since 2011 (in Germany as DIN standard DIN EN 1627: 2011-09, replacing DIN 18106: 2003-09).

Resistance classes

The standard defines resistance classes, resistance times (time a product can withstand a break-in), types of perpetrators and the modus operandi . The resistance classes have been designated since September 2011 with "RC" for "resistance class". The resistance class RC 2 N was newly introduced, which can only be implemented with standard window glass. In new buildings and renovations, the installation of tested burglar-resistant windows and balcony doors as well as doors according to EN 1627: 2011 provides at least resistance class RC 2 (N) with good burglary protection. With these windows and doors, it is ensured that there is no weak point in the overall construction (frame, fitting, glazing or door leaf, frame, lock and fitting).

Resistance class Resistance time Type of offender / procedure (modus operandi)
RC 1 N (new) Static and dynamic testing only, no manual testing Components of the resistance class have a limited to low basic protection against attempts to break in with physical violence (predominantly vandalism) such as kicking, jumping, shoulder throwing, pushing up and tearing out. In addition, a non-destructive manipulation test with a maximum of 3 minutes is carried out with small tools for dismantling components that can be unscrewed from the outside in preparation for further tests. Windows of class RC 1 N are therefore used if necessary for elevated installation (for example on the upper floor) if a climbing aid is required due to a lack of standing space. The class is only carried out with standard window glass.
RC 2 N (new) 3 minutes The casual perpetrator tries to break open the locked component with simple tools such as screwdrivers , pliers and wedges. A direct attack on the installed glazing is not to be expected. The class is only implemented with standard window glass (i.e. without safety glazing).
RC 2 (old WK 2) 3 minutes The casual perpetrator tries to break open the locked component with simple tools such as screwdrivers , pliers and wedges. Glazing according to EN 356 is mandatory from class RC 2.
RC 3 (old WK 3) 5 minutes The usual offender also tries to break open the locked and locked component with a second screwdriver and a cow foot .
RC 4 (old WK 4) 10 mins The experienced perpetrator also uses saw tools and striking tools, such as ax , chisel , hammer and chisel , as well as a cordless drill .
RC 5 (old WK 5) 15 minutes The experienced perpetrator also uses power tools, such as B. Drill , jigsaw or reciprocating saw and angle grinder with a max. Disc diameter of 125 mm. In addition to the classification according to EN 356, the glazing must withstand direct attack during the RC5 test.
RC 6 (old WK 6 ) 20 minutes The experienced perpetrator also uses powerful power tools, such as B. Drill, jigsaw or reciprocating saw and angle grinder with a max. Disc diameter of 250 mm. In addition to the classification according to EN 356, the glazing must withstand direct attack during the RC6 test.

In brackets ENV 1627 as of 1999. The German police generally recommend products according to DIN EN 1627 from resistance class RC 2 N.

DIN EN 356: Test standard for attack-resistant glazing

Logo of the German Institute for Standardization DIN EN 356
Area Construction
title Glass in construction - special safety glazing - test methods and classification of resistance to manual attack
Latest edition 2000-02
ISO -

The specifications for the glass are defined in the European standard EN 356. Normal glazing does not have a break-in-resistant effect. Protection is provided by burglar-resistant glazing ( bulletproof glass or laminated safety glass ), security foils or additional windows in accordance with EN 356. Such glazing consists of a combination of glass and transparent plastics. According to the standard, the glazing is designated with an ascending number and the letter P and an additional code letter. The code letter A stands for impact-resistant glazing and the code letter B for break-through-resistant glazing.

Attack-resistant glazing after a break-in attempt

Impact-resistant glazing in classes P1A to P5A describes attack-resistant glazing with impact resistance. In the test procedure, a 4.11 kg metal ball (diameter 100 mm) falls onto a glass sample (1100 mm × 900 mm) three times (or nine times for P5A) from the specified height.

class Ball height Hit area
P1A 1.5 m Triangle with an edge length of 130 mm
P2A 3 m Triangle with an edge length of 130 mm
P3A 6 m Triangle with an edge length of 130 mm
P4A 9 m Triangle with an edge length of 130 mm
P5A 9 m In the same place

Break-through-resistant glazing in classes from P6B to P8B describes attack-resistant glazing with break-through resistance. In the test procedure, attempts are made to make a square breakthrough with an edge of 400 mm with an ax 30 to over 70 times.

class Number of ax blows
P6B 30 to 50
P7B 51 to 70
P8B over 70

DIN EN 50131-x: Alarm systems - intrusion and hold-up alarm systems

This series of standards defines the minimum requirements for intruder alarm systems . The basic requirements are contained in Part 1 of the series of standards. These include requirements for operation, reliability, function and the level of security. The desired level of security (level 1 - low risk to level 4 - high risk) of a system must be determined by the planner in cooperation with the operator of the object to be monitored. The other parts of the series of standards describe the basic requirements for the components and other requirements in connection with hold-up and intrusion alarm systems.

Further standards (burglar-resistant retrofit products, protective fittings)

Burglar-resistant retrofit products for windows and doors are subjected to a practical burglary test in accordance with DIN 18104-1. DIN 18104-2 specifies requirements and test methods for burglar-resistant retrofit products that are subsequently installed in the rebate of windows or balcony doors. Tested and certified security hardware or armored roses in accordance with DIN 18257 should a violent twist of the profile cylinder complicate effective and a mechanical attack on the castle.

Further guidelines / certifications

Keys of different security levels

The guidelines of the listed bodies are observed by specialist companies when assembling safety products. Burglar-resistant products and technical systems are also certified , for example, by the European Certification Body (ECB) and the Association of Property Insurers (VdS). The other certification and standardization organizations include:

See also

further reading

Web links

Individual evidence

  1. Brochure: Burglary protection for tradespeople ( Memento of the original from May 25, 2010 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. Retrieved June 16, 2010.  @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.polizei-beratung.de
  2. M&C Sicherheitstechnik KG (ed.): My burglar protection - protect your home effectively against burglars too: Valuable tips against uninvited guests. Vienna 2019, ISBN 978-3-200-06491-1 , pp. 6-10 .
  3. Burglars only come when you are not there? 15 burglary myths under review. Retrieved August 25, 2015 .
  4. a b c Federal Criminal Police Office, Police Criminal Statistics (PKS) 2013 - Summary ( Memento of the original from July 5, 2014 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , Wiesbaden 2013, p. 53 (PDF) @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.bka.de
  5. ^ Website Polizei-beratung.de ( Memento of the original from December 19, 2007 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. Retrieved June 17, 2010.  @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.polizei-beratung.de
  6. Brochure: Uninvited Guests ( Memento of the original dated August 28, 2007 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. , Police crime prevention program, p. 3. @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.polizei-beratung.de
  7. Reported break-ins in apartments and houses in Austria from 2004 to 2013. Accessed on December 12, 2014 .
  8. Fabienne Riklin: Burglaries: Switzerland is European champion. In: Switzerland on Sunday. March 30, 2013, accessed December 12, 2014 .
  9. Security gaps and break-ins. (No longer available online.) In: Alarmanlage.de . September 2014, formerly in the original ; Retrieved September 18, 2014 .  ( Page no longer available , search in web archivesInfo: The link was automatically marked as defective. Please check the link according to the instructions and then remove this notice.@1@ 2Template: Dead Link / www.alarmanlage.de  
  10. Police crime statistics (PKS) 2013 - yearbook , Wiesbaden 2013, p. 7, PDF. (PDF) (No longer available online.) In: Bundeskriminalamt . 2014, archived from the original on July 17, 2014 ; Retrieved September 18, 2014 . Info: The archive link was inserted automatically and has not yet been checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.bka.de
  11. Not-with-me , accessed June 17, 2010.
  12. M. Schauer: Sicherheitsleitfaden , p. 7, Tupperware, 1996
  13. Self-protection comes first! Retrieved December 12, 2014 .
  14. ↑ Fuses for house and apartment doors. Retrieved December 12, 2014 .
  15. Stuttgarter-nachrichten.de: Rainer Wehaus - Obligation for new buildings is only checked: Burglary protection remains voluntary from December 5, 2015, accessed on July 8, 2017
  16. Burglary protection: More security for the home Ratgeberhaben.de. Retrieved December 23, 2015.
  17. Construction network knowledge-norms-burglar resistance ( Memento of the original from November 19, 2010 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was automatically inserted and not yet checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. Retrieved June 16, 2010.  @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.baunetzwissen.de
  18. Christian Kehrer: DIN EN 1627 - The new standard for burglar resistance. (PDF) (No longer available online.) Ift Rosenheim , 2011, formerly in the original ; Retrieved August 15, 2013 .  ( Page no longer available , search in web archivesInfo: The link was automatically marked as defective. Please check the link according to the instructions and then remove this notice.@1@ 2Template: Toter Link / www.edpro-rosenheim.de  
  19. Burglary protection from the basement window to the patio door. “Safe at home” network, accessed on May 3, 2015 .
  20. ^ LKA Lower Saxony ( Memento of the original dated November 6, 2004 in the Internet Archive ) Info: The archive link was automatically inserted and not yet checked. Please check the original and archive link according to the instructions and then remove this notice. Retrieved June 17, 2010.  @1@ 2Template: Webachiv / IABot / www.lka.niedersachsen.de
  21. DIN EN 50131-1 (VDE 0830-2-1) accessed on June 29, 2010.