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Securing your home
Burglaries are often crimes of opportunity. Most intruders are looking for (and often find) a house left open or unlocked, making it easy for them to get what they can and make a quick getaway.
We all need to take precautions so that our homes are secure and safe. If we’re sensible, we can get the most out of home living and reduce the risk of becoming victims of burglary.
Ways to reduce your level of risk can include the following:
- Use security deadlocks and grilles on doors and windows. Solid core doors are recommended. Have one or two window grilles hinged to allow easy exit in case of an emergency.
- Always lock all outside doors and windows (including your garden shed and garage) when you go out, even if you’re only going to be away for 10 minutes.
- If you’re are in the garden or watching television, lock up parts of the house you can't keep an eye on.
- Don’t hide extra keys in flowerpots or under mats.
- Never give your security keys to anyone that you don’t know.
- Make sure your home is clearly visible from the street. Prune bushes and trees that hide windows and doors.
- Make sure outdoor areas are well lit.
- If you’re having things delivered while you are out, have a neighbour collect them.
- Wheelie bins are a great stepladder – lock them away.
- When you go out for a short time, leave a light and the radio or television on to give the impression that someone is at home.
If you’re worried about the security of your home, the police and organisations such as Neighbourhood Watch can provide tips about reducing the risks of break-ins. Insurance companies and security companies sometimes also provide free information and advice on making your home more secure.
The Seniors Portal, the Australian Government website for Australians over 50, has a useful section on home safety and security.
The Council On The Ageing (COTA) (more information) ACT Home Safety and Security Handbook is also a useful guide to securing your home. It covers general safety, fire safety, medical safety and security.
Personal security
Here are some basic safety tips for your personal security when you are out and about:
- Always be aware of other people and your immediate surroundings.
- Be aware of locations and situations that could make you vulnerable to crime, such as laneways, isolated parks and buildings, back streets and poorly lit parking lots.
- Don't carry large sums of money. Pay your bills by cheque, credit card, over the phone or online.
- If you carry a handbag, hold it under your arm or in front of you and never leave it unattended. If you use a wallet, put it inside your jacket or a front pocket.
- Have your car keys ready before you get to your car.
- If you believe you’re in danger, shout out and make a scene and go into the nearest shop or busy place.
- When you are banking or using an automatic teller machine, always vary your routine.
- Put your money away before moving away from a teller or a machine, and keep any large sums of cash in an inside pocket, not a purse of wallet.
- If you have any queries, contact your local police and they can provide further information and advice.
Common questions on this topic:
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