Chaos and social unrest are unfortunately often accompanied by looting. This is not a new phenomenon. To protect your home and possessions during such situations, you can acquire some practical items.
In the Netherlands there were riots, violence against law enforcement and looting during the anti-lockdown protests in January 2021. Brussels experienced the same several months before. During recent protests in Los Angeles entire shops were looted, windows smashed and property destroyed. After several days, more than 200 people were arrested.
People take advantage of chaos
Opportunistic criminals use the chaos to strike. They know that the police and emergency services are already overstretched and will respond less quickly. You also regularly see peaceful protests quickly escalate into violent riots. Therefore, it is sensible to be prepared for this, especially if you live in an urban environment.
Securing your property
Limit visibility
People are more inclined to break in if they can see there is something valuable to take. Close the curtains and/or shutters of your home, shop or other premises in the city, especially in the evenings.
Reinforce entry points
Ensure that burglars or looters find it difficult to get in. Therefore, reinforce your windows and doors. Additionally, you can also place sturdy bars behind your doors.
- Use quality locks in your doors
- Consider security fittings
- Safety film on your window prevents the glass shards from scattering, thereby keeping the passage obstructed
Technological security
Previously, I wrote an article about how you can defend yourself against burglars. It covers alarm systems, smart doorbells and other tools that can help you protect your property.
???? Modern security
Did you know that modern security systems offer real-time monitoring and warn of suspicious activities? Discover more about this here:
Physical defence: to do or not?
If you know that looting is imminent, you can still quickly barricade doors and windows. Pushing heavy furniture in front of doors can help keep unwanted visitors out.
Is it worth it?
In some American states, carrying weapons and using weapons against burglars is legal. In Belgium and the Netherlands, this is not the case. Therefore, you must always consider whether the game is worth the candle. It seems logical that you want to protect your possessions, but at what price?
- Be aware that there are severe penalties for using excessive force against burglars.
- There is a right to self-defence, but this often does not apply when it comes to protecting property.
- In physical confrontations you also run risks: I don’t know many people who can defend themselves against a horde of looters.
They won’t be able to take your premises and what’s inside is (hopefully) well insured. Therefore, fleeing is sometimes better, even if you have to leave valuable items behind.
Do you still want to defend yourself? Then read here which legal self-defence tools are available in the Netherlands and Belgium.
Avoid direct confrontation
If you see looters, do not engage in confrontation – unless you have absolutely no other choice. Make noise to alert neighbours and contact the emergency services.
Ensure a safe room
Create a safe space where you can barricade yourself if necessary. Choose a room with solid walls, preferably without windows at ground floor level. Equip this room with means of communication, water and any defensive tools.
Legal considerations and non-violent deterrence
Self-defence within the law
Inform yourself about legislation regarding self-defence in Belgium and the Netherlands. You have the right to protect your property, but there are limits to what is permitted. Avoid excessive force and document what happens if possible. Physical defence may only be proportional to the threat.
Psychological deterrence
Sometimes the impression of defence is just as effective as actual defence. Warning signs, fake security cameras or even the sound of a barking dog (via a sound system) can deter intruders. Ensure your home looks occupied and guarded.
Sound deterrence
Loud sounds can scare away looters. Whistles, air horns or even banging loudly on pots and pans make a lot of noise and attract the attention of neighbours. In Los Angeles we saw how many shop owners tried to scare away looters by raising the alarm.
Insurance conditions
Check your home insurance for exclusions for damage caused by civil unrest. Some policies do not cover this as standard. Consider additional cover if you live in a risk area.
Protection against looting requires a combination of physical measures, technology and correct behavioural choices. Recent events in Los Angeles demonstrate that even in developed cities chaos can strike quickly. By being prepared and adequately securing your home, you increase the chance that you and your possessions remain safe during uncertain times. Investing in security is investing in your peace of mind.