Protecting your property

Keeping your home and property secure is what most householders want to do. Most people do it automatically. However sometimes it is good to have a reminder.

Your home

Always lock your doors and secure your windows when you leave home. If you are working in your garden, away from the house, don’t leave doors unlocked or open as you won’t necessarily see anyone getting into your house while you focus on what you are doing. Garages and outbuildings/sheds should be locked when not in use. Particularly internal access garages if left open provide, in most cases, unhindered access to your home.

When finished with any equipment outside secure it in a shed/garage which is locked, this includes ladders and tools etc.

Depending upon your finances consider installing window security stays, security lights and a burglar alarm. Always keep your keys and automatic door openers secure.

Keep trees and shrubs trimmed, particularly around the front door so that someone can be seen if they are trying to break in.

Your possessions

Always record the make, model and security numbers of your big ticket items such as TVs, stereos and appliances. Keep those numbers in a secure place.

Photograph jewellery, and your big ticket items.

Check out the free police website to at www.snap.org.nz as a place to store your serial numbers and photos of appliances etc.

Keep your credit/debit cards in a secure place, don’t leave them lying around and don’t share your pin number, your bank won’t ask for it, don’t write it down – remember it!

Your vehicles

When your vehicle is parked at home don’t leave it unlocked, even in a garage.Don’t leave valuables in an unattended vehicle.

Store your bike in a lockable garage/shed and if you are unable to do that secure it with a strong chain and lock to an immovable object.

Store you boat/boat trailer, caravan, camper, motorhome out of sight if possible. Use a wheel clamp to prevent it being towed away. You can also purchase tow ball lock to prevent it being towed.

Always keep a record of your vehicles VIN, make, model, colour and any non-standard items, and take photos of them as well. Keep this information & photos secure in such a place as www.snap.org.nz