We all want to feel safe and secure in our homes. Often, it’s the small, everyday habits that make the biggest difference. A little forward thinking, some clever, but easy, adjustments and a few good habits can go a long way in keeping your space safe, especially when you are not home. Here are some simple, practical, low-cost home security tips, because protecting your home shouldn’t feel overwhelming.
Even if you are just outside in the garden, make sure your doors and windows are locked. Gates, garages and sheds should be shut and secured - even if you are only heading out for a few minutes. Don’t forget the door between your garage and the house! It becomes an external door when the garage is open, so keep it locked too.
House keys, car keys and garage remotes are like gold to thieves, so keep them out of sight. The kitchen counter, hallway table or key hooks are the first places they will look so pop them in a drawer or cupboard instead. Spare keys should never be hidden under doormats or pot plants. Instead give a key to a trusted friend or use a well secured key safe.
Overgrown hedges and big bushes offer the perfect hiding spot for intruders. Take the time to keep trees, shrubs and vines trimmed, especially near windows, gates and pathways so there is nowhere for an intruder to hide.
Lock up ladders, tools and even your wheelie bins so they can’t be used to break into your home. Opportunistic thieves love an easy boost through a window or over a fence. Have a think about what is lying around outside. A quick tidy up could make all the difference.
If you have purchased something expensive, break the box down before it goes in the bin. Leaving packaging on the kerb tells the world exactly what is inside your home.
Locking your meter box stops anyone from tampering with your power. Talk to your electricity provider about the best way to do this.
Holiday photos are great, but posting while you are away tells everyone your house is empty. Save the holiday snaps for when you get home.
Jewellery boxes on the dresser and valuables in the bedside table are like a treasure map for thieves. Find a less obvious spot to keep them.
A security sticker or sign can make someone think twice before targeting your home, even if you don’t have a security system!
It can be useful to get to know the people who live around you. Wave, smile or say “hi” when you see them. Over time, small gestures can grow into a friendly relationship where you can look out for one another. A quick text or a call if something looks off can make all the difference in keeping your street safe.
How does your house stack up?
Neighbourhood Watch offers a handy home security habits quiz. Think of this as your home’s regular health check. It’s quick, easy and can be surprisingly eye-opening. Maybe you’ve been meaning to put a lock on the side gate or replace that dodgy front light. Here is your friendly reminder! Taking a few minutes to walk around your home with fresh eyes can help you spot the weak spots before someone else does.
If you are after a more detailed appraisal of your home’s security features, complete Neighbourhood Watch Victoria’s How safe is my house? quiz.