National Secure Your Home Day, marked on September 23 and 24, 2023, is a significant reminder that safety starts at home. This event encourages Australians nationwide to be proactive about home security and not feel helpless against the growing trend in national break-ins. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), within the last year, 194,100 homes have experienced a break-in, and a further 193,300 experienced an attempted one. The figures are daunting, but Neighbourhood Watch Australasia, responsible for organising the event, believes that each of us has the power to reverse this trend.
Rising Tide of Burglaries
For the first time in over a decade, from 2021 to 2022, the average trend in national break-ins increased in Australia. This uptick not only reflects the audacity of burglars but also highlights the vulnerabilities in our homes. Most homeowners might feel overwhelmed by these statistics, but it is essential to remember that many of these break-ins could have been prevented with simple, low-cost security measures.
National Secure Your Home Day to the Rescue
To combat this rising tide, National Secure Your Home Day serves as a call to action for homeowners and renters alike. It is a day for everyone to review their home security measures, identify vulnerabilities, and implement cost-effective solutions to secure their homes better. This initiative not only helps to raise awareness about the importance of home security but also provides practical tips and strategies for individuals to reduce the risk of their homes being targeted by burglars.
A Quick and Handy Security Checklist
As part of this year’s event, we present a simple and manageable checklist that every homeowner can action to improve the security of their homes:
- Lock Doors and Windows: Always ensure that your doors and windows are locked when you are not at home or sleeping, even if you are only stepping out for a few minutes.
- Install Adequate Lighting: Good outdoor lighting can deter potential burglars. Consider installing motion-sensor lights near entrances and darker areas around your property.
- Make Use of Timers: Make your home look occupied even when it’s not. Use timers to turn on and off lights, TVs, or radios to give the impression that someone is home.
- Secure Air Conditioning Units: Make sure that ground floor air conditioning units are secured correctly to prevent burglars from removing them to gain access to your home.
- Trim Shrubs and Trees: Ensure that shrubs and trees near windows are trimmed to remove potential hiding spots for burglars.
- Install a Security System: A home security system can significantly deter burglars. This doesn’t necessarily mean an expensive setup; even a basic alarm system or a visible security camera can make a difference.
- Don’t Advertise Absence: If you’re going away, don’t let your absence be known to all and sundry. Request a neighbour to collect your mail or use a mail hold service to avoid a buildup of letters which signals no one is home.
Remember, the best way to combat the fear and uncertainty of neighbourhood crime is through proactive measures. By securing your home and encouraging your neighbours to do the same, you can contribute to a safer community for everyone.
National Secure Your Home Day is an opportunity for all Australians to take a stand against burglaries and break-ins. By implementing these simple, low-cost measures, we can all make a difference and help turn the tide against home crime.
