22 per cent of break-ins occur while a family member is at home

Almost a quarter (22 per cent) of residential break-ins occur while a family member is at home, according to alarming research findings from ADT Security.

The Secure Homes Report surveyed 2000 homeowners and renters in both metropolitan and regional Australia.  It revealed that the impact of a burglary far surpasses the cost of replacing stolen items or damaged property, causing anxiety and stress in 33 per cent of victims.  The survey also found that 37 per cent of victims reported reduced trust levels, 17 per cent experienced sleeping problems and 8 per cent were no longer able to be at home alone following a break-in or burglary.

“A home break-in can be a frightening and emotional experience for any homeowner or tenant,” said Michael Bates, ADT Security. “Victims report feelings of insecurity, violation and anger.  Such emotional distress is often multiplied if a family member was at home during the break-in.”

ADT Security encourages householders to carry out a security assessment of their property in order to best protect themselves from burglary and other crimes.

“Think like a thief and take a walk around your property to assess it for weak spots. When you know your weak spots you can look at ways of reinforcing them. Remember, just because you’re at home doesn’t mean that you should leave your windows and doors open.  Most break-ins occur when homeowners have presented burglars with an opportunity like an unlocked window.

“If you are unlucky enough to be at home during a break-in, do not confront the intruder. If you can safely escape the house and raise alarm, do so.  Otherwise it’s best to go to a safe room in the house with a lockable door, remain quiet and call the police,” said Bates.

Home security tips:

• a lock should always be the first line of defence.
• a monitored home alarm is one of the most effective security measures. Alarms can be activated even when the home is occupied and it’s possible to isolate certain areas of the home to be monitored while sleeping. In the event that an ADT alarm is triggered, a signal is sent to a 24 hour Security Response Centre where trained operators identify the cause and take appropriate action.
• don’t leave the packaging of new appliances on the footpath in front of your house. You’re just advertising that you have new goods worth stealing. Instead tear up the box and put it in the recycling.
• if your home has a shed or garage, ensure it is properly secured – many aren’t.
• ensure spare keys aren’t hidden in obvious places. Thieves always look in mailboxes, under doormats and above doorways for keys.  Don’t make it easy for them to enter your home.
• with apartments or multi-story homes, ensure external walls and drain pipes are free of any unnecessary attachments or braces to prevent climbing.

For further information and advice on how to best protect your home and your family, read the home safety and security tips on the ADT Security website www.adtsecurity.com.au or watch ADT’s home security video.

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