Quiz - How Safe Is My Place

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First, some general questions about your home and neighbourhood.
How safe do you feel when you are in your home?
Rate by moving the slider left or right, 1 being completely unsafe and 10 being totally safe
What type of home do you live in?*
- House
- Apartment
- Unit/Townhouse
- Farm
How well do you know your neighbours?*
- I know them very well and leave a spare key with them
- I know them fairly well, we keep an eye on each other’s places
- I know them to say hello and we talk occasionally, but that’s it
- I don’t know them
TIP: It is reassuring to have neighbours you can trust, who will keep an eye on your place when you’re not around and with whom you can leave a spare key. Try inviting your neighbours around for a coffee or a barbecue to get to know them better.
TIP: Next time you see someone who lives next door, across the road or in your street that you don’t know, give them a wave, “say hello”, start a conversation.

Which of the following external doors does your home have?*
- Front door
- Rear door
- Side door(s)

Which of these doors have the following security measures?
Solid core*
A door that is solid from front to back and doesn’t change in sound as you tap along it
- All
- Some
- None
Heavy duty frame and quality strike plate*
The frame that the door fits into and the metal plate which receives the door bolt.
- All
- Some
- None
Security screen door*
A steel or aluminium screen door with an extra-strong frame, grille, mesh and lock.
- All
- Some
- None
Three or more door hinges*
Door is fixed to the frame with three or more inside-resting hinges.
- All
- Some
- None
Reinforced or security glass*
Tougher and thicker than ordinary glass or strengthened with security film.
- All
- Some
- None
Quality keyed lock, three-point lock or deadbolt*
Locks that are stronger, heavier and more secure knob-set locks.
- All
- Some
- None
Quality keyed lock
A lock that is sturdy, well-made and will stand the test of time and force. A good quality lock will usually be key-operated from both sides. Look for locks that meet the Australian lock standard.
Three-point lock
A three-point (or triple) lock has one central lock, plus an internal rod that connects to two additional locks, one above the main lock and one below it. It is significantly more secure than a single lock as it locks at three points on the door jamb.
Deadbolt
Deadbolts have no spring activation and are thicker and heavier than spring latches. The locking bolt is typically made of steel or brass, is not rounded or angled at the end and extends about 25mm into the door frame. It can be either key-locked from the inside or with a turning mechanism.
Electronic, remote or keyless locking*
Locks that have a number pad or are operated with an electronic device.
- All
- Some
- None
Electronic, smart or keyless locking

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).
One-way vision mesh, peephole or video doorbell*
Something that allows you to see who is at the door, without them seeing you.
- All
- Some
- None
One-way vision mesh

A mesh for screen doors that restricts vision to one-way so that people looking from the outside, cannot see in.
TIP: Take a look at your doors that could do with some extra security and make a plan to upgrade them so that it’s harder for thieves to break into your home. You don't have to do everything at once.
TIP: Reinforce your locks with a box strike plate secured with screws that are at least 5cm long, to make it harder for thieves to force entry through your door.
TIP: Make sure your security screen doors meet Australian Standard AS5039-2008. Ideally, they should have a steel frame and grille, reinforced corners and a deep receiver channel.
TIP: Electronic or keyless door locks are perfect for the tech-savvy homeowner and give greater control over access to the home. If you’re considering upgrading or installing new locks, you can find a RACV-verified locksmith through RACV’s Home Trades & Services platform. All jobs performed by an RACV tradie are backed by the RACV assured program, up to $3000. Coverage is subject to the RACV Assured Terms and Conditions and each scenario will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Which of your windows have the following security measures?
Burglars often check for windows that are unlocked, open or slightly ajar, particularly those that can’t be seen from the road.
Key-lockable locks*
Locks that can only be operated with a key
- All
- Some
- None
Secure quality locks (non-keyed)*
Inside latches that operate with a handle or swivel action and cannot be jemmied open.
- All
- Some
- None
One-way blinds*
Coverings that allow you to see out, but don’t permit others to see in.
- All
- Some
- None
Security screens/bars*
Steel or aluminium bars, grilles or retractable screens on the outsides of windows.
- All
- Some
- None
Reinforced/security glass*
Tougher and thicker than ordinary glass or strengthened with security film.
- All
- Some
- None
Neighbourhood Watch stickers*
- All
- Some
- None
Security/CCTV stickers*
- All
- Some
- None
TIP: It's better to have all window likes keyed alike and to keep that key with your other household keys, rather than keep the keys in their locks, especially when you are not at home
TIP: If your windows can easily be opened by a would-be thief, consider installing quality locks on them. RACV’s Home Trades & Services platform allows you to select an RACV-verified locksmith and any work done is backed by the RACV-Assured Program, up to $3,000. Coverage is subject to the RACV Assured Terms and Conditions and each scenario will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
TIP: One-way blinds or privacy shades allow you to look out of a window, without people outside being able to see in, even when backlit. They will allow natural light to enter your home, but also prevent thieves from being able to see inside your house.
TIP: If you would like to be sent a Neighbourhood Watch sticker to display on your home, email admin@nhw.com.au

Which of these steps do you follow to secure your household keys?
Opportunistic thieves often gain access through unlocked doors and windows or by using a key which has been left in a common hiding spot outside the home.
House and car keys, including spares, are always stored out of sight, behind a locked door*
House and car keys, including spares, are always stored out of sight, behind a locked door
- Yes
- No
Keys not kept in locks*
Keys are removed from window and door locks before leaving the home
- Yes
- No
Spare key kept with trusted friend, relative or neighbour*
Spare key kept with trusted friend, relative or neighbour
- Yes
- No
TIP: Avoid leaving keys in obvious places where thieves know to look, like the kitchen bench, hall table or a key hook inside the home, or hidden outside under planters and doormats, in a mailbox, on a ledge or in a utility box. The best place to keep keys is of sight, behind a locked door.
TIP: The best place to leave a spare key is with a trusted friend, relative or neighbour. If you accidentally lock yourself out, RACV Emergency Home Assist locksmiths are on call 24/7, 365 days of the year to help, either on a subscription basis or a single home emergency call-out.

Does your home have any security systems?*
- Yes
- No
Which of the follow systems do you have in place?
- Motion sensors/detector
- Monitored security system
- Unmonitored security alarm
- Window or door sensors
- Security cameras in entry
- Security footage stored safely
TIP: If you’re not sure of the right security system for your home, use RACV’s Security Discovery tool to help find a solution to suit you and your home.
TIP: Consider securing your electricity box with an approved power industry lock so that opportunistic thieves can't shut off your power and negate security systems.
Security system definitions
Motion sensor
A device that detects movement in an area is where they shouldn’t be (eg, an intruder) and sends an alert to your control panel, which alerts your monitoring centre.
Monitored alarm system
A monitored system alarm will alert a call centre if the alarm gets triggered and this call centre will contact the police.
Unmonitored alarm system
This system sets off a loud siren inside and outside the house when the alarm is tripped. This system relies on your neighbours nearby to call the police if you are not home.
Window and door sensors
Door and window sensors will sound an alarm (emit a siren, trigger your home security system or sending you an alert on your phone) when someone picks a lock or climbs through an open window or door.

What safety measures do you already have in place at your home?
I keep a phone in my bedroom at night*
I keep a phone in my bedroom at night
- Yes
- No
I have sensor lighting or timed lighting in my house for when I’m not at home*
I have sensor lighting or timed lighting in my house for when I’m not at home
- Yes
- No
My television and radio/stereo is timed to switch on and off when I’m not at home*
My television and radio/stereo is timed to switch on and off when I’m not at home
- Yes
- No
I keep all my doors and windows locked when I’m at home or in my yard*
I keep all my doors and windows locked when I’m at home or in my yard
- Yes
- No
Any manholes, pet doors or skylights are kept locked and/or bolted from the inside*
Any manholes, pet doors or skylights are kept locked and/or bolted from the inside
- Yes
- No
- Not applicable
I have a dog*
I have a dog
- Yes
- No
TIP: Installing sensor or timed lighting creates an illusion that someone is home and will help deter intruders and burglars.
TIP: In one out of every five home burglaries, thieves enter through unlocked doors or windows. Even if you’re home or in your yard, an opportunistic thief may take the chance to enter, steal your car keys or other valuables, and exit, without you even realising. Always keeping your doors and windows locked, makes it harder for thieves to break in.
TIP: Research with burglars has consistently found that owning a noisy dog is a one of the biggest turn-offs for opportunistic thieves. Most burglars won’t risk drawing attention to themselves and will move on. However, only own a dog if you have the time and patience to love and care for it properly and welcome it as a member of your family.

Which of the following measures do you take to secure your valuables?
Wallets, handbags, smartphones and jewellery stored safely out of sight*
Wallets, handbags, smartphones and jewellery stored safely out of sight
- Yes
- No
Computers, televisions and other electronics kept away from windows.*
Computers, televisions and other electronics kept away from windows.
- Yes
- No
Power tools kept out of sight or in securely-looked shed or garage*
Power tools kept out of sight or in securely-looked shed or garage
- Yes
- No
Valuables photographed or videoed*
Valuables photographed or videoed
- Yes
- No
Serial numbers, makes and models of valuables recorded*
Serial numbers, makes and models of valuables recorded
- Yes
- No
Valuables inscribed with a “V” plus driver’s licence number*
Valuables inscribed with a “V” plus driver’s licence number
- Yes
- No
Valuables kept in a secured, locked safe located out of sight.*
Valuables kept in a secured, locked safe located out of sight.
- Yes
- No
TIP: Consider placing your valuables in a safer spot that is not visible through your windows or doors, or when someone enters a room, such as in a safe or secured drawer or cupboard. This will help minimise the risk of opportunistic thefts occurring.
TIP: 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.
TIP: Marking your valuables with a “V” and your Victorian driver’s licence number will help police to return your items to you if they are stolen and recovered.

Which of the following security measures do you have around the entry to your property?
House number is clearly displayed*
House number is clearly displayed
- Yes
- No
House number is visible at night*
House number is visible at night
- Yes
- No
Security camera faces entry*
Security camera faces entry
- Yes
- No
Front door and entry can be seen from street*
Front door and entry can be seen from street
- Yes
- No
Garden kept short and neat*
Garden kept short and neat
- Yes
- No
Motion sensor or timed lighting*
Motion sensor or timed lighting
- Yes
- No
Letterbox can be secured with a keyed lock or padlock*
Letterbox can be secured with a keyed lock or padlock
- Yes
- No
Neighbourhood Watch stickers visible*
Neighbourhood Watch stickers visible
- Yes
- No
TIP: Your house number, ideally, should be around 20cm wide and located in a clear place so it can be easily seen from the street in the day time and illuminated so it can be seen at night. Having your number painted on your kerb, is also a good idea. This will help emergency services find your house quickly if needed.
TIP: Try to maximise visibility of your front door and entry way so that neighbours and passers-by can easily see any intruders. The possibility of being seen can deter potential offenders.
TIP: Consider trimming back overgrown shrubs and trees around the front of your property to make entry points and sight lines clearer and keep your lawn maintained.
TIP: Protect your mail and deter would-be thieves by securing your letterbox with a quality lock. Thieves can use the personal information contained in bills, bank statements and paperwork to steal your identity.
TIP: If you would like to be sent a Neighbourhood Watch sticker to display on your mailbox, email admin@nhw.com.au

What fences does your property have?
Fences provide clear boundaries between public and private areas, helping to keep unauthorised people out and make spotting intruders much easier. Front fences are usually the first barrier to potential burglars.
- Front fence
- Side fence(s)
- Rear fence
Which of the following security measures do you have in place for your front fence and gate
- Fence is see-through or low enough to allow an unobstructed view
- Fence is kept in good condition
- Front gate can be locked/bolted
- Vehicle gate is kept closed and locked
- Vehicle gate is automated and/or operates with a remote control
Which of the following security measures do you have in place for your rear and side fences and gates.
- Fencing is in good condition
- Fencing is difficult to climb over
- Bins and other climbable obstacles stored away from fences, in a secure area
- Ladders are locked inside buildings
- Gates have quality keyed locks and/or lockable bolts
TIP: Having a low or see-through front fence which makes entry points clear and visible is a greater deterrent for thieves than having a high, solid fence.
TIP: Make sure there is nothing kept next to or near boundary fences that thieves could use to climb into your property. Keep ladders and wheelie bins inside a locked garage or shed, if possible.

Do you have any outdoor buildings such as sheds, a studio or granny flat?*
- Yes
- No
Which of these security measures do you have on your outdoor buildings
- Building secured to ground
- Solid core door and frame
- Quality keyed lock
- Lockable door bolt
- Quality window lock
- Motion detector lighting
TIP: If your sheds or outbuildings aren’t properly secured with quality locks, consider purchasing keyed locks and bolts or upgrading them.

Where do you park your car at home?*
- Garage
- Behind a locked gate
- Carport
- Yard
- Driveway
- Naturestrip
- Street
Does your home have an enclosed garage?*
- Yes
- No
What security measures do you have in place for your garage
- Garage door remote always removed from car
- Main garage door kept locked when not in use
- Access door to house kept locked at all times.
- Sensor lighting at entry
- Service/entry door has deadbolt and heavy-duty strike plate
- Windows have reinforced glass and blinds
- Security camera at entry point
- Main door has dedicated lock/bolt separate to electronic opener
TIP: 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.
TIP: 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.
TIP: Electronic openers on garage doors are designed as a convenience for drivers, not for security, so it’s important not to rely on them to keep burglars out.

Thank you!
Congratulations on completing the How Safe Is My Place quiz, an initiative of Neighbourhood Watch Victoria, supported by RACV.

To access your personal How Safe Is My Place report please complete the form below. We will also send you our Top 5 Simple Tips to reduce your risk of burglary straight away.

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Step 1 of 13

Let's begin

Which of these doors have the following security measures?

Which of your windows have the following security measures?

Which of these steps do you follow to secure your household keys?

Security system definitions

What safety measures do you already have in place at your home?

Which of the following measures do you take to secure your valuables?

Which of the following security measures do you have around the entry to your property?

Thank you!