When would you say your property is at its greatest risk of being broken into? Most would say summer when we have our doors and windows open to allow fresh breezes to flow through, or the Christmas and New Year period when many of us are away on holidays. But the truth is that a break-in can happen at any time of the year. So it makes sense to start thinking about your home security now before you are left without a secure way to open your home when the summer season arrives. Reasons to start planning your security in winter According to Australian crime statistics, your home is most likely to be broken into between 12 pm and 5 pm on a Friday, with the most amount of burglaries reported in October. And so, with October just around the corner, now is the best time to start planning your home security in preparation for the summer (and burglary) season. Another reason to start planning your security before summer is one that’s likely on your mind already – for financial reasons. The end of the financial year is here and with it comes a healthy bank deposit in the form of a tax return. If you’re looking to invest in security for your home and loved ones, now is the best time to do this. Not only can you take advantage of your tax return to purchase your Crimsafe now, but if you own an investment property or business, your Crimsafe purchase could be tax deductable next financial year. What to consider for home security Before you invest in just any old home security system, it’s important that you take the time to assess your current security measures and identify the areas where you are most at risk. According to Australian crime statistics, 55% of those who had experienced a break-in said they didn’t have any home security, and 47% reported damage or tampering with their doors or windows. This gives you a good place to start when it comes to protecting your home. Some key things to check are: Do you have a security system? Do you have security screens on your windows and doors? If you do have security screens – what condition are they in? Are they showing signs of wear and tear around the frame or on the mesh? Are the tracks and hinges for your doors and windows in good condition? Are the locks for your doors and windows working correctly e.g. not jamming, keys are fitting locks correctly, not rusted? Another good idea is to assess the perceived opportunity that your property presents for intruders. Some key things to avoid include: Leaving doors and windows open Easy to enter backyards Detectable keys – leaving spares in obvious places False security cameras – burglars can recognise these and are not deterred Leaving your rubbish bins out on the curb for lengthy periods of time Having an overflowing mailbox Plan early and consider getting Crimsafe this winter If you’re looking to get your property safe and sound as soon as possible, the winter period is the right time to do so with Crimsafe. Don’t put off now, what you know you will need for summer. Book a free measure and quote with your local Crimsafe supplier today. Source: ‘Burglaries in Australia: by the numbers‘, originally published by The Guardian.
