Summer is a time where numerous working families in Macarthur take a much-needed break from their busy lives. After all, you deserve some down time after a full working year! Unfortunately, robberies and break-ins are very common during this period. Thieves know you are away, and so strike right when you decide it’s time for some relaxation. Follow these points to help reduce the very real risk of a home break-in.
The most obvious deterrents are often the best. Consider installing a security alarm system and use it when no one is home. If you have a dog, purchase a “Beware of the dog” sticker for the front fence.
It is important to recognise thieves often watch the home they are planning on breaking into for quite some time – a scary thought indeed. Take a look at your home from the street. Does it look neglected, abandoned or otherwise “inviting” for a thief? If so, clean your yards, clear the trash and give your property a fresh feeling.
When you are away on holiday or if no one is home in Macarthur during the day, installing a timer to electronics is a good idea. Timed lights, televisions and stereos can give a very realistic illusion that someone is living inside your home.
If you plan on going away for an extended period, ask friends, family and neighbors to park their car in your driveway, clear the mail, put bins out on your bin collection day and to periodically open and close windows, blinds, curtains and drapes.
While the holiday period is an exciting one, you should refrain from posting your departure and arrival dates on social media websites such as Facebook, Twitter, Myspace and Youtube. You will be surprised at how much effort goes into a burglary, and posting on these websites is like having huge neon sign reading “Thieves Welcome” with an arrow pointed towards your home. Changing your answering machine to “Welcome to the Smith Residence, we are on holidays at the moment so please leave a message” is also a common mistake you should try to avoid.
The fact of the matter is, no matter the effort we put into prevention, you must consider the worst case scenario and be prepared. If a thief manages to break in, you must make it as difficult for them to take your valuables as possible. Here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Lock away lawn mowers, tools, pool chemicals, hedge clippers and ladders. While thieves may steal these, they can also be used to break into your home. Ensure your garage is locked, and if you have internal access, check to make sure this is also secure.
- Lock all interior doors and windows. Cutting wood to size or using rods to block tracks of windows and sliding doors is a great way to prevent thieves from opening these entry points, even if the lock has been tampered with.
- If you have valuable jewelry or money try to leave them with a close relative or place them in a safety box or a bank.
- Notify the police of your departure and arrival dates.
By following these simple steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of having your holiday ruined.
