RAC Insurance Home Claims Manager, Glen Walker, recommended holiday-makers considered multiple security measures to protect their homes while they’re away.
“It’s important to ensure that when you go away on holidays, your home doesn’t look vacant,” he said.
“Mail building up in the letterbox or rubbish bins left out on the street can be a clear sign you’re not around.
“Ask family and friends to house sit and water your plants and neighbours to put out the rubbish bins and collect the mail to make your home look occupied and maintained.”
Results of interviews with police detainees featured in an Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) report revealed that home alarms were the second biggest deterrent to burglars after barking dogs. Almost 50 per cent of burglars said working home alarms were an effective deterrent.
“Fourteen per cent of our surveyed members already protect their homes with alarm and security systems when they’re away,” Mr Walker said.
The report also showed burglars were aware of attempts to make a home appear occupied, such as leaving lights or electrical appliances on for hours at night, and it was often a signal of an empty home.
“There are some things we do to give the impression someone is home, such as leaving lights, televisions or radios on for many hours, that can actually have the opposite effect,” Mr Walker warned.
“Western Australians should be aware that opportunistic thieves are on the look-out for easy targets.
“Keep garden sheds and workshops locked as power tools are at high risk of being stolen and tradesmen should be extra vigilant to secure tools that are carried in motor vehicles.
“Don’t make it easy for thieves by leaving spare keys in obvious places like under doormats or in flowerpots.
Instead, leave spare keys with a trusted neighbour, friend or family member. If possible, install a home security system and use the window stickers that come with it to warn potential thieves there is an alarm system in place.”
Last year, RAC completed more than 2500 home burglary claims and the worst performing suburbs in order were 1) Bassendean, Beechboro and Thornlie 2) Morley 3) Duncraig 4) Canning Vale and Hamilton Hill 5)Gosnells 6) Spearwood 7) Armadale 8) Rockingham 9) Baldivis and Port Kennedy and 10) Ballajura.
For more home burglary tips visit rac.com.au/home-security/how-secure-is-your-home/travel-checklist or rac.com.au/insurance/tips.
Media contact: RAC Media Office 0401 703 719
