Summer may be a time for relaxing, but don’t let your guard down when it comes to crime. According to a study examining seasonal crime patterns that was recently released by the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, most types of crime are more likely to happen in summer. See Burglaries in Summer, School Assaults in Fall.

• Your house is much more likely to be broken into in the summer – Burglary is 11% more common in the summer than in the winter — that’s more seasonal variation than for any other single type of crime.

• You’re more likely to be a victim of violent crime in summer – “serious violence was significantly higher during the summer than during the winter, spring and fall seasons.”

However, as the Vox article reminds us that muggings, rape and assault – all crimes, really – can happen in any season.

Law enforcement and loss control experts offer a few tips:

Personal Security–At Home, On the Street, While Traveling – Released by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security

Crime Prevention for Homeowners – Tips During the Warm Weather Months

Keep Your Home Safe on Vacation: 9 Essential Tips

Lonely Planet – Top Tips for Safe Travel

LAPD Crime Prevention Tips – tips sheets on a wide variety of scenarios

Prior related posts on this blog:

Going on vacation? 5 steps to secure your home while you are away!

Staying Cyber Safe During Your Vacations

Vacation Rentals and Homeowners Insurance

Curious Klepto Critters Steal Cameras: Will insurance cover this?

First and foremost, stay safe. Things are just things and can be replaced – plus, the right insurance coverage can help mitigate any loss of possessions. Your personal safety is what’s paramount!