A large number of break and enter crimes are easily preventable. By introducing a number of simple and inexpensive changes to your home or investment property, you can play an active role in reducing the chances of this happening to you.

• Invest in good quality deadlocks for external doors. Don’t forget to include internal connecting doors such as the one between the garage and the home.
• Keyed window locks help prevent easy access, especially at ground level.
• To save money and time, make sure locks are all keyed alike (i.e. one key to operate all locks). A locksmith will be able to rekey your existing locks alike or can provide quality replacements.
• Unwelcome visitors do not like to operate in the spotlight. Install security lights at entrances, verandas and in the backyard.
• Lock up ladders and tools; a burglar could use these to break into your home. Also your valuable tools could be stolen if not stowed away securely.
• Trees, trellises and tall hedges look great, but place them where they cannot be used as “ladders” to access your windows or roof or as hiding places. Prune regularly.
• Automatic time switches for selected lights or the TV help create the appearance of being at home, even when you are not.
• Don’t record your address on key tags.
• Don’t leave spare keys in easily accessible areas such as in a garden, under the doormat or in the metre box. Small key safes are available which can be affixed to a wall and accessed with a 4 digit number code.
• Engage a tradesperson to install a tailor cut Perspex protector sheets (approx 20cm x 20cm) to the handle area of exterior security screen doors. This prevents burglars being able to slit the screen mesh and unlock the screen door with their fingers.
• If going on holidays let a neighbour know and also request that they collect the mail and newspapers.

Many break and enter crimes can be described as opportunistic. Thieves will usually target ‘easy’ premises with low security. For more information on ensuring your property is secure, click here.