If you’ve been following the news recently, you would have seen Premier Anna Bligh’s decision to break away from her government’s opposition to a “much-needed” crime squad to be stationed on the Gold Coast following a spate of unsolved robberies over the past year. There is much debate about the validity of such a force, and I’m not going to discuss the pros and cons of both sides today.
However something that I am interested in, is home-security and the safety of the residents in the Gold Coast and surround. The Easter holidays may have been and gone, however there are public holidays still upon us (not to mention the June school vacation period which will be here before you know it). It is a time where many Gold Coast residents head out for that well deserved Winter-getaway, leaving their homes unattended for several nights. And whilst yes, in some cases, home invasion can still happen – no matter how many security screens, lights and cameras we have installed – here are a few tips to remove the “welcome mat”, so to speak, for unwanted visitors.
- This might seem like a no-brainer, but check and double check that you have locked any windows sporting individual locks. Many people get into a very bad habit of just swinging the window closed, however while it may be enough to keep the rain out – it won’t keep out people who want to come in.
- Let your neighbour know that you’re going to be away – and leave a contact number. If you are on especially good terms with them, ask if they can even collect your mail. Even better – ask them to park their car on your property in your absence.
- If you’re going away for more than a few days – get your mail held by Australia Post and postpone any newspaper deliveries and turn down the volume of your telephone – particularly if it can be often heard on the outside of your property.
- Install automatic timer devices for your television and particular lights in the house. Nothing screams “we’re not home” like a darkened residence at 7pm. Ensure that you engage manual locks on your electric garage door and although it may seem like common sense – obviously leaving keys on or around your property is an open invitation.
- Lock away ladders, tools or other items that could be used as potential “break-in” equipment. The same applies to empty boxes or similar containers alongside bins for rubbish collection. It is amazing how many times houses have been cleaned out and no-one noticed because it was simply assumed that the residents were “moving”.
Do you have any tips to add to the list, or stories of easily-avoidable robberies? Leave them below. In the meantime, check out the Australian Neighbourhood Watch website and take a “virtual tour” to help you ‘audit’ your home security efforts. You’ll be surprised at the little things that contribute to keeping your home safe.
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