Ahead of National Secure Your Home Day on 27 - 28 September, Queensland Police Service (QPS) is reminding residents to remain vigilant and ensure their homes are secured every day.
The call comes as Queensland police officers have noted an increase in reports of unlawful entries into dwelling and homes statewide.
Many break-ins are preventable with simple security measures.
National Secure Your Home Day is the perfect opportunity to take action and ensure your home is as safe as possible.
This annual event encourages Australians to prioritise home security, providing practical tips and advice to help protect your family, belongings, and peace of mind.
Whether you are a homeowner, renter, or landlord, there are steps you can take to make your property less appealing to potential intruders.
The majority of property crime offences are opportunistic, where the offender takes advantage of vulnerability such as an unlocked door to commit a crime.
As such, crime intelligence indicates that the majority of criminals will move on from a property when they face a barrier created by strong security measures.
Looking for easy targets, offenders may be more inclined to attempt to break into homes that appear unoccupied, have poor lighting, or lack basic security measures.
By making small changes, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
- Lock up every time – Always lock your doors and windows, even if you're just stepping out for a few minutes. Don't forget to lock side gates, sheds, and garages too.
- Keep valuables out of sight – Avoid leaving expensive items like laptops, phones, or jewellery in plain view from windows. Store car keys in a secure spot, away from doors and windows.
- Light up your home – Use solar-powered lights around entry points to brighten up dark areas.
- Get to know your neighbours – Build a good relationship with your neighbours, they can help keep an eye on your property when you're not around. Consider joining or starting a Neighbourhood Watch group in your area.
- Secure your yard – Keep your yard tidy by trimming bushes and trees near windows and doors. This removes hiding spots for potential intruders. Put away tools, ladders, and other items that could be used to break into your home.
- Be smart about social media – Avoid posting about holidays or trips until you're back home. Don't share your location or daily routines publicly online.
- Keep your home looking lived-In – If you're going away, ask a neighbour or friend to collect your mail and put your bins out.
To learn more about National Secure Your Home Day and to register online to receive a free National Secure Your Home Day Kit - with a home security checklist and tips on securing your home - visit www.secureyourhomeday.com.au.
To learn more about securing your home and increasing your personal safety, visit https://www.police.qld.gov.au/safety-and-preventing-crime.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
