Step 1 of 11 - Your Apartment
In Victoria there are regulations regarding what security must be provided to tenants. For example, external doors and windows in a rental property must be able to be locked or secured. Each renter whose name is on the rental agreement (lease) must be given a copy of a key or security device. As you read through this personalised report keep in mind that you can approach the landlord (agent) or building manager about any additions/measures you would like undertaken about crime prevention.
The frame that the door fits into and the metal plate which receives the door bolt.
A steel or aluminium screen door with an extra-strong frame, grill, mesh, and lock.
Door is fixed to the frame with three or more inside-resting hinges.
To affix hinges to the frame
An electronic lock that doesn’t use a traditional key. You gain access via a keypad located at or near the door, which requires entering a numeric code; a fingerprint scan; or remotely via a smartphone or electronic control (you can also monitor who comes and goes).
Something that allows you to see who is at the door, without them seeing you.
Key lockable manual bolt, made from hardened steel, that fits to door head with hidden screws.
Burglars often check for windows that are unlocked, open or slightly ajar, particularly those that can’t be seen from other apartments, neighbouring buildings or the roadway/footpath.
Locks that can only be operated with a key.
Inside latches that secure the window to the outer frame, operate with a handle or swivel action and cannot be jammed open.
Coverings that allow you to see out, but don’t permit others to see in.
External grilles, mesh or roller shutters made from steel or aluminium and are strong enough to withstand most attempts at forced entry.
Tougher and thicker than ordinary glass or strengthened with security film.
Opportunistic thieves often gain access through unlocked doors or by using a key which has been left in a common hiding spot; car keys left in the car.
If you’re not sure of the right security system for your home, check out your options at www.racv.com.au/in-your-home/home-security/alarm-systems to help find a solution that suits.
Installing sensor or timed lighting inside your home creates an illusion that someone is home and will help deter intruders and burglars.
Leaving your radio or tv softly tuned to a talk channel when you’re out, can help trick would-be intruders into thinking there are people at home.
In one out of every five home burglaries, thieves enter through unlocked doors or windows. Even if you’re home, an opportunistic thief may take the chance to enter, without you even realizing. Always keeping your doors and windows locked, makes it harder for thieves to break in.
Make sure you have adequate contents insurance which can cover the loss of any valuables. Keep digital receipts or take a photo of hard copy receipts and store safely. Take photos of jewellery, antiques and other rare or highly valuable items. RACV has a handy home contents calculator at www.racv.com.au/home_contents/insurance
Keep smaller valuables stored in a secured drawer, cupboard or other safe spot, where they can’t be seen through a window or when someone enters the room.
Place larger valuables such as computers and televisions in spots where opportunistic thieves can’t easily see them when looking through windows or glass doors.
Securely lock away your power tools in a shed or garage after you’ve finished using them so they aren’t an easy target for opportunistic thieves.
Keep a record of your valuables, including photos or videos, plus their makes, models, serial numbers or other key details. If they are stolen, this record can be given to police and your insurer.
While many high-rise towers often come with their own security, don’t let this make you complacent.
It's crucial not to grant entry to strangers into any of the common areas, even if they claim to be fellow residents.
Politely remind individuals to wait their turn if they attempt to enter closely behind you as you enter your foyer so that they do not attempt tailgate.
Whenever you park your car, always close windows, remove valuables, lock the doors and keep the keys, fob or garage remote with you or inside your locked house.
The safest place for your car is inside a locked garage. If you don’t have a garage, keeping it parked in your driveway or carport, behind a locked gate, is your next safest option.
If you have a remote for your garage door, keep it on your car keys or in your bag, not in your car, where an opportunistic thief can steal it to enter your property.
Ensure to remove any detachable components, such as bicycle accessories or details, to deter theft when parking your bicycle/e-scooter.
Attach a good quality D-lock to connect your rear wheel, seat tube, and the solid anchor point. Use a second good quality D-lock to secure your front wheel, down tube, and the solid anchor point. If the anchor points lack adequate length for this arrangement, employ the D-lock to firmly fasten your front wheel and down tube together.
Make sure your gates have strong, quality keyed or electronic locks or lockable bolts and keep them locked when you’re not using them.
One of the simplest things you can do to prevent theft of property from your storage cage is remove the temptation: Hang a tarp or similar around the inside walls of your cage so that the opportunistic crook isn’t tempted to steal your property.
No crime is too small to report. Your report about a crime or someone acting suspiciously may provide an important clue that leads to an arrest. Keep the following numbers handy, or store them into your phone, so you know who to report what to and when.
Call if you need immediate fire, police or ambulance assistance – if a crime is happening now, if the suspect may still be in the area, if someone needs urgent medical help, if life or property is being threatened, or if you see flames.
Call if you don't need police to attend straight way - to report non-urgent crimes or events, such as theft, property damage or lost property, or for general police enquiries. You can also report online at www.police.vic.gov.au
Call to confidentially report information about crimes, or suspicious activity, vehicles or people that could help solve or prevent a crime. You can also report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Visit our website to learn more about Neighbourhood Watch, find out how you can get involved and get loads more tips and advice on how to protect yourself, your family, your home and your property, and get to know your neighbours better.
Visit www.nhw.com.au for more tips and advice about protecting yourself, your family, your home and your belongings from crime.
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