As we are now in full school holiday mode and with many people planning on going away for Christmas, Mount Isa Police are urging the community to review their current home security measures.
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Sergeant Whitney Lacy from the Mount Isa Crime Prevention Unit said all residents should keep themselves, home, vehicles and belongings secure at all times.
"Please take the time to consider your current security measures and any potential improvements which can be made to ensure you are protected," Sergeant Lacy said.
"If you plan on leaving town for an extended period of time these school holidays, consider leaving your curtains open and external lights on.
"Also consider asking your neighbours to collect your mail and bring your rubbish bins in.
"If there appears to be a bit of activity around your home, you are less likely to attract a potential burglar."
Protect yourself, your home and your belongings by considering the following audit checklist:
- External doors of your home should be solid and fitted with quality deadlocks;
- Fit security screen doors, designed and installed to Australian Standards;
- Install a door viewer;
- Fit windows with secure locks which meet Australian Standards and do not leave keys in window locks;
- Ensure security grills/shutters are properly installed and allow exit in case of an emergency;
- Install an intruder alarm system that covers all external doors, windows and garage, which is installed to Australian Standards for domestic applications;
- Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed to allow visibility to your property;
- Lock up items of value - Keep your garage door closed and locked at all times;
- Install perimeter security lighting, such as sensor lighting; and
- Mark or engrave your property with serial numbers/codes and record them.
Protect your vehicle and belongings by considering the following audit checklist:
- Always lock your vehicle and fully close windows;
- Remove valuables and personal documents from sight;
- Park your vehicle in a well -lit and highly visible area;
- Use off street or secure parking, where possible;
- Remove keys from ignition if your vehicle is parked;
- Do not hide spake keys on, or in the vehicle;
- Take vehicle keys with you if you are going out and leaving the vehicle at home;
- Do not mark keys with personal information, use a code or serial number instead;
- Do not leave vehicle keys laying around the house - keep them out of sight;
- When parking in a garage, ensure both the vehicle and garage are locked and that garage remotes are secured;
- Consider using a car alarm, immobiliser, ignition shield, steering wheel lock or GPS tracker;
- Use lockable devices such as lockable fuel caps, wheel nuts, spare tyre covers, roof racks; and
- Secure your vehicles registration plates.
For up to date crime prevention information, including more checklists, click here.
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