COWRA GUARDIAN & NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

With typically higher rates of home burglaries over the summer holidays when people are away, visiting family and friends, Cowra Neighborhood Watch has spoken to Inspector Thomas Murdoch, OIC for Cowra and Blayney, as well as Zac Jones from ZacPower, which installs a range of home security systems.

Christmas is also a time when we tend to keep more valuables around the home such as presents for loved ones. The increased number of home thefts during the festive season is an important reminder to take precautions to keep your home safe. NRMA Insurance research shows that only 40% of Australians have security cameras or alarm systems installed, suggesting an opportunity for more residents to consider bolstering their home security. The research also revealed that one in five Australians leave their keys in a hiding spot outside. B&E is one of the most common crimes in NSW and costs between $150–500 million every year.

Inspector Murdoch says "Most property theft and vandalism is preventable, and the actions to deter these crimes are simple and inexpensive. Break and enter offences can increase during the holiday season as people spend more time away from home, coupled with the assumption that there are probably more valuable items inside after Christmas."

Inspector Murdoch said simple steps to prevent 'opportunistic crime' make a big difference.

"Simple tips like ensuring windows and doors are locked can greatly reduce the opportunistic crime. We encourage residents not to leaving spare keys 'hidden' outside, and to consider asking a trusted neighbour to collect any mail or deliveries received while you're away. You could also allow this trusted neighbour to use your driveway, all of this gives the impression that someone is home."

For many residents, the old adage of 'the camera doesn't lie' makes CCTV a powerful tool to fall back on for either deterrence, or providing evidence.

Zac Jones of ZacPower says "A prominent, reliable CCTV system and motion-activated external lighting is one of the best investments a homeowner can make to protect their property and deter potential thieves. There is a perception that these systems are overly expensive, but the technology has developed to a point now where hardware and install costs can meet most budgets."

With many off the shelf systems being within most budgets, providing the capability to check your house on an app on your phone, the technology is both accessible and offers peace of mind.

Mr Jones said "The value of your items will always be more than the cost of the surveillance system protecting them. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind, particularly if you're planning on being away from home or your business for extended periods this holiday season."