Tips to keep your home secure

Is your door locked and your keys hidden? (Ries Bosch /Unsplash)

Is your home secure to deter would-be thieves?

Murgon and Wondai Police are encouraging residents to implement simple home security measures to discourage thieves.

A Murgon and Wondai police spokesperson said there were often typical circumstances which occur prior to a home being burgled.

“A burglar will usually act on easy or tempting opportunities, especially when it is evident no one is home or the risk of being caught is low,” they said.

“By implementing simple security measures correctly, you will achieve good home and vehicle security.”

What you can do:

• Residents should key lock doors, windows and other exit points, even when you are at home.

• Locks can be keyed alike, allowing you to use one key for multiple locks which can assist in a safe exit if there is an emergency.

• Residents should remove keys from locks when not in use and place them out of sight in a convenient location that all house members are aware off.

• When parking in a garage, ensure both the garage and vehicle are locked and the garage door remotes are secured.

• Remove keys from the ignition and lock your vehicle if your vehicle is parked or unattended, even if it’s only for a minute.

• Ensure the internal door to the garage is solid and lockable.

• Consider fitting security screen doors, designed and installed to Australian Standards.

• Consider installing an intruder alarm system and security camera system that covers all external doors, windows and garage. Ensure the system is installed to Australian Standards for domestic applications.

• Always ensure car keys and house keys, together with mobile phones, handbags and wallets, are stored out of sight.

• Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed to allow visibility to your property and your house number is clearly visible.

• Lock away items of value such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden implements such as ladders. Always keep your garage or shed door closed and locked with a key.

• Consider installing perimeter security lighting including sensor lights.

• Have an emergency evacuation plan and review it regularly.

The Wondai and Murgon police spokesperson reminded residents that security features only work if all household members have good habits when it comes to keeping the home secure.

House-breaking is one of the most common crimes and can occur at any time of the day or night. A good practice is to conduct a regular assessment of your home security.

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