10 Steps For Home Security
Utilise the following tips to keep your home secure and unattractive to potential burgulars.
Become a member of Neighbourhood Watch and encourage your neighbours to do the same. Your neighbours are your most valuable security asset.
This is important for discouraging theft as well as assisting in the identification of recovered property.
Trees and shrubs should be trimmed or lowered to allow a clear view of the house. This will remove hiding places and improve your neighbours visibility should you need assistance.
Fences or other barriers, such as garage doors at either side of your home will make it more difficult for an offender to enter and work in the "safety" of your backyard. Ensure that all tools are stored away and outbuildings are locked securely.
Lighting such as flood lamps should be installed to minimise hiding spots for the "would be" offender, particularly whilst you are at home.
Have a viewing window installed in the lid of your meter box, and a Western Power approved padlock or key lock installed.
Normal sized keys which fit into knob locks (typically fitted to most homes) are a burglars delight. These locks must be backed up with a security lock or deadbolt to protect your home from easy access. Also make sure you fit a key operated lock to aluminium sliding doors in particular.
Key operated locks provide a much greater level of security than manufacturer fitted catches. Remember not to leave keys in the locks or in any visible area.
Have security screens fitted to the doors or portion of the windows that are left open for ventilation. Make sure doors are "key locked" as the latch (snib) device on many doors cannot ensure maximum security for your home.
Intruders are far less likely to break into a house with an alarm system that complies with Australian Standard 2201. Monitoring Services are also very effective for providing an immediate response to an activated alarm.
