'Tis the Season to be Secure
BY: KELLIE WRIGHT, BRISBANE GENERAL MANAGER
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Christmas is the season to be jolly. It's also the time when we all need to be a little extra security conscious.
Don't make it easy for a "would be" intruder to gain entry to your home. Remove climbable objects which may assist entry and don't hide your spare key in an obvious place.
Let there be light in dark areas with motion sensor lights to discourage nocturnal burglars.
Lock up your home. Ensure your doors and windows are secure, don't make your place an "Open House" for intruders.
Close the gate behind you. If you live in a secure complex make sure the security gate, building door or garage door closes behind you and immediately report any maintenance issues to your building manager.
Know your neighbours and keep an eye on each others' homes. You don't have to be nosey neighbours, just look out for each other.
Lock away your tools, these can be used to access your home and can be valuable sale items.
Take note of your gut feeling. Report any suspicious characters hanging around your home to your building manager, Police and neighbours.
Fake it by leaving a light on, or leaving the radio or television playing so your home doesn't appear empty.
Put your mark on it. Engrave your valuables with your driver's license number or date of birth, this makes it harder for thieves to sell and easier for Police to identify.
Stranger danger. Remember what we teach our children and be wary of strangers. Don't let just anyone in to your home or building. If you don't know who they are don't let them in.
Internet criminals won't be lazing at the beach or visiting Santa on the North Pole, they will be at their computers developing new and innovative ways to infect your machines and steal your personal details. Be extra vigilant with your internet security over the festive season. Avoid opening emails from companies you don't usually receive emails from, in particular emails with e-cards, special offers, videos, or attachments which claim to be invoices and receipts.
And in case you do fall victim to crime, make sure you have appropriate insurance in place and an inventory of your belongings.
Some simple security measures could help avoid someone taking the jolly out of your Christmas.
