Melbourne's House Security Tips, Facts and Tricks

Home Security Facts:

Most burglars will not stay longer than 30 seconds after the alarm is triggered.
The more a burglar has to work, the less chance you have of becoming a victim.
A burglar will bypass your home if it requires too much effort /if you have alarm or CCTV installed.
Burglars choose unoccupied homes with the easiest access, the greatest amount of cover, and with the best escape routes.
A burglar is less likely to attempt to enter a well-lit residence.
Most burglars enter homes through an open or unlocked window or door.
One out of every four burglaries involves forced entry.
The most common way used to force entry through a door with a wooden frame is to kick it open.
The majority of home burglaries occur during the daytime when people are away at work or at school.
Most home burglars are looking for things that are small, expensive, and can be converted to cash.
Don't leave these items laying around, even after the alarm is triggered they can grab them on the run.
- Jewellery
- Watches
- Laptop computers

Install Intercom / Alarm Security System
Install deadbolt locks on all exterior entrances
Never hide your keys outside.
- Give an extra key to a friend or family member instead.
Plant some thorny bushes around windows and walkways.
Ensure that all windows have working locks
Secure back doors and entrances in the same manner as front entrances.
For sliding glass door use security doors or window pins.
- Track fillers or a wood pole to prevent the door from being forced open.
Use locking devices that secure the doors to the frame or track.
Add sufficient lighting to the back and sides of your home.
Make sure to keep your garage door closed, even if you're only going to be away for a few minutes.
Make a list of your valuables - DVD's, Stereos, Computers, Jewellery.
- Take photos of the items, list their serial numbers and description.
Place highly visible decals on the glass door near the latch mechanism that indicates that an alarm system or a dog is in place.

Never leave an "I'm away!" message on your answering machine.
Ask a neighbour to use your garbage cans.
An empty garbage bin is a tip-off that you are away.
Use timers for lights, televisions and sound systems to turn them on and off at different times.
When appropriate (longer holiday) keep the grass cut.
Don't let newspapers and mail accumulate.
- If you can't arrange to have them picked-up have your deliveries held at post office.
Use motion detector activated exterior lighting.
Test or service your alarm system a week before you're scheduled to leave, that way any problems can be taken care of before you go.
Ensure that anyone who will be checking your home while you're away knows how to work your alarm system.
- Make sure they have all the necessary info and access codes.
A security system is not something that you should buy off the shelf; it should be customized to meet your needs and finances.
- An on-site evaluation by the alarm company is required before an educated quote can be provided to you.