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Burglars often operate opportunistically - they look out for vulnerable properties that look like easy targets. This includes homes with high-value goods on display combined with low security, and those that look unoccupied.
While some burglars are likely to be casual operators, others can be more professional and may scope out particular properties for some time before striking. And some can get so good at it that it becomes their main means of earning a living!
According to ABS statistics, approximately 350,000 households in Australia experienced an actual or attempted break-in during 2020-21. But the good news is that there are lots of simple things you can do to help burglar proof your home.
And no one knows how to do this better than an actual burglar! So in light of that, here are a few tips from the 'experts'.
Home security tips from a burglar
Some convicted burglars are willing to give away tricks of the trade. According to an interview with a repeat offender by the RACV, the most vulnerable homes are those with lots of glass where you can see right inside, combined with lax security such as unlocked doors and gates. Easy rear access can also be a factor, as it allows burglars to operate with greater stealth.
The burglar interviewed gave these home security tips:
- Avoid advertising your valued possessions to the world – such as by leaving your curtains wide open.
- Don’t allow your letterbox to get too full when you are away.
- Leave the radio or TV on to give the impression there’s someone home.
- Join your local Neighbourhood Watch, and get to know your neighbours personally.
- Make your back fence harder to climb (e.g. by adding a trellis).
- Do not hide cash and valuables under the mattress, in drawers or in the freezer (the first places burglars often look!)
- And the most important tip of all – lock up your doors when you go out!
Experienced burglars reveal security mistakes
Research by the AIC (Australian Institute of Criminology) into the motives and methods of burglars came up with similar results. Many of those surveyed indicated that homeowners often make it too easy – most notably through not locking their doors, and by leaving a key in an obvious hiding place near the front door.
The most common deterrents cited included a dog, an alarm system, window and door grilles, sensor lights, and lights on inside after dark.
How to beef up your home’s security
Of course it’s not enough just to know that you should improve your home’s security – you also need to know how to go about it in a practical sense.
Installing security screens and doors is one of the best ways as it allows you to lock up your house more securely than with a regular screen doors and windows. For example, quality security doors feature 3-point locking technology and stainless steel mesh that is extremely hard to penetrate, cut or remove.
Other measures you can take include installing security systems (e.g. alarm, camera and sensor lights), and a timing system – one that will switch on your
TV and lights at set times when you are away.
If you’d like help to choose security doors for your home, get in touch with us for a consultation or a free quote.
SOURCES
https://www.racv.com.au/royalauto/property/insurance/how-to-stop-burglars.html
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