Hutt Valley residents reminded to keep homes safe

Although burglaries and home invasions are rare, they can happen from time-to-time. Upper Hutt City Council, along with Hutt Valley Police, would like to remind residents that there is plenty they can do to make their homes unattractive to burglars and reduce their chances of being burgled.

1. Lock your doors and windows. With the warmer days approaching, residents should always check that doors and windows are closed and locked when going out. It can also be a good idea to keep them secure when at home. Security catches can be installed so that windows can be open while still preventing somebody from climbing in.

2. Build good relationships with your neighbours.

"Get to know the people in your street, look out for each other, especially if you are going away." says Director of Community Services, Mike Ryan. "Consider forming a neighbourhood support group in your street, as this is an excellent way to encourage natural surveillance in your neighbourhood."

When going away, ask your neighbour to collect your mail. You might also want to ask them to go into your house from time to time to manage curtains and lights and/or put washing on the line.

3. Security chains and peep-holes are excellent ways of enabling residents to see whos at the door without having to open it. If you dont know who is at your door, you dont have to let them in. Its not bad manners to ask for identification-its just good sense.

4. Security alarms are an effective deterrent. Some burglar alarms can also double as smoke detectors.

5. Dont leave ladders or gardening tools lying around. These are attractive to burglars, and they can be used to break into a house.

6. Install powerful outside lights with motion sensors. Burglars dont like to be seen, so will often run away when lights come on. Night visitors can also then be easily identified.

7. Dont leave keys hidden outside, especially in those obvious places.

Read the original here:
Hutt Valley residents reminded to keep homes safe