How you could get $500 to up your home security if you've been a victim of crime
- Replies 6
With over 37,000 unlawful break-ins reported in Queensland since January, home security is top of mind for many residents.
Opportunistic burglars often seek homes with easy access points and valuables like laptops, phones, game consoles and jewellery that can be sold quickly.
To deter these break-ins, Superintendent Rob Fleischer from the State Crime Prevention Unit recommended starting with visible deterrence measures.
'Most of the time, there are quite minor ways or easy ways to improve your security,' he said.
Mr Fleischer explained: 'The more you can prevent them from moving freely through your house, the more chance you've got of losing less property. Most of the time, the first place they'll come to is your front door and then your windows.'
Deterrence measures like security screens, sensor spotlights, a visible alarm system or a CCTV system make burglars think twice before breaking in. Reinforced deadlocks on doors and windows also slow down access.
In a separate interview, he also stressed the importance of investing in home security despite it not being a fool-proof measure against crime.
‘Security is not the solution for preventing all offences, but putting in place crime prevention strategies will absolutely put you in the best position to protect yourself and your loved ones,’ he said.
‘If you ever do find yourself in the position where your home is broken into–the best thing you can do is stay in a locked room, make noise and alert the intruder to your presence and immediately call Triple Zero (000), and police will take immediate action.’
To assist homeowners in deterring break-ins, Neighbourhood Watch Australasia has launched a pilot subsidy program in three locations across Australia, including Toowoomba.
The program offers a $500 reimbursement to victims of crime who invest that amount in target-hardening home security measures like alarms, screens, lighting and CCTV.
Neighbourhood Watch is a non-profit community group focused on crime prevention. They aim to help residents secure their homes and feel safe.
Homeowners can also go to their local police station for a free security check on their homes.
A trained security expert from the police will assess your home's safety and suggest any needed repairs or improvements. You may qualify for help with small home fixes necessary for your safety and well-being.
To be considered for this assistance, you must be a homeowner or renter, be 60 years old, or have a disability. There are also other requirements for subsidised help.
For more details, visit the Home Assist Secure website or get in touch with your local Home Assist Secure provider.
Many seniors love the freedom of living independently, but it can also come with risks, like being more at risk of intruders.
In addition to the safety tips we discussed above, creating a network with your neighbours is a good idea. Working together to look out for each other's homes can make a big difference in feeling safe and connected.
Make sure you have everyone's contact info handy, just in case something urgent comes up. It's like having a safety net of people you trust nearby.
You may also find the Home Security Guide, developed by Queensland Police, useful as a means to gauge your preparedness against home invasions and theft. You can download it here.
What are your thoughts on this, members? We also have to ask: what are the ways you're protecting your home from possible intruders? Do you have more tips and advice to share? Feel free to leave them in the comments below!
Opportunistic burglars often seek homes with easy access points and valuables like laptops, phones, game consoles and jewellery that can be sold quickly.
To deter these break-ins, Superintendent Rob Fleischer from the State Crime Prevention Unit recommended starting with visible deterrence measures.
'Most of the time, there are quite minor ways or easy ways to improve your security,' he said.
With over 37,000 unlawful break-ins reported to Queensland police since January, police are urging homeowners to assess their home security. Credit: Pexels.
Mr Fleischer explained: 'The more you can prevent them from moving freely through your house, the more chance you've got of losing less property. Most of the time, the first place they'll come to is your front door and then your windows.'
Deterrence measures like security screens, sensor spotlights, a visible alarm system or a CCTV system make burglars think twice before breaking in. Reinforced deadlocks on doors and windows also slow down access.
In a separate interview, he also stressed the importance of investing in home security despite it not being a fool-proof measure against crime.
‘Security is not the solution for preventing all offences, but putting in place crime prevention strategies will absolutely put you in the best position to protect yourself and your loved ones,’ he said.
‘If you ever do find yourself in the position where your home is broken into–the best thing you can do is stay in a locked room, make noise and alert the intruder to your presence and immediately call Triple Zero (000), and police will take immediate action.’
To assist homeowners in deterring break-ins, Neighbourhood Watch Australasia has launched a pilot subsidy program in three locations across Australia, including Toowoomba.
The program offers a $500 reimbursement to victims of crime who invest that amount in target-hardening home security measures like alarms, screens, lighting and CCTV.
Neighbourhood Watch is a non-profit community group focused on crime prevention. They aim to help residents secure their homes and feel safe.
Homeowners can also go to their local police station for a free security check on their homes.
A trained security expert from the police will assess your home's safety and suggest any needed repairs or improvements. You may qualify for help with small home fixes necessary for your safety and well-being.
To be considered for this assistance, you must be a homeowner or renter, be 60 years old, or have a disability. There are also other requirements for subsidised help.
For more details, visit the Home Assist Secure website or get in touch with your local Home Assist Secure provider.
Many seniors love the freedom of living independently, but it can also come with risks, like being more at risk of intruders.
In addition to the safety tips we discussed above, creating a network with your neighbours is a good idea. Working together to look out for each other's homes can make a big difference in feeling safe and connected.
Make sure you have everyone's contact info handy, just in case something urgent comes up. It's like having a safety net of people you trust nearby.
You may also find the Home Security Guide, developed by Queensland Police, useful as a means to gauge your preparedness against home invasions and theft. You can download it here.
What are your thoughts on this, members? We also have to ask: what are the ways you're protecting your home from possible intruders? Do you have more tips and advice to share? Feel free to leave them in the comments below!
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