Media release - 16^th December, 2014

Christmas is a peak time for thieves, and in the excitement of preparing for the holidays, it’s easy to forget to secure a property against uninvited intruders.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) there were 203,438 incidents of unlawful entry with intent in Australia in 2013, with residential break-ins representing 71% of burglaries.

Nearly seven in ten victims of unlawful entry with intent, had property taken (69% or 140,314 victims).

Apart from installing an extensive network of CCTV surveillance cameras, Angus Raine, Executive Chairman and CEO of Raine & Horne, advised more straightforward measures will ensure that Father Christmas is the only visitor using your chimney this Christmas.

“Start by ensuring your doors have high-quality locks, particularly deadlocks, and windows have keyed locks or security grilles.

“Also, if your home has sliding doors or windows, a simple metal or wooden rod wedged in the cavity can prevent them being opened from the outside,” said Mr Raine.

Other tips include installing a security alarm, locking up the power box to prevent tampering with alarm systems and lights, and ensuring gates are locked and gaps in fences are repaired.

“Presenting the impression that a home is occupied is another simple deterrent. This usually means leaving blinds or curtains in normal positions, while installing a sensor light to flick on when someone approaches can ward off aspiring intruders.

“I’d suggest setting a timer to switch on your lights and a radio or television at different times, while hanging some old clothes on the line and leaving a pair of shoes at the front door are other ways to give the impression your home is occupied.

“Turn down the ring tone on your phone so people don’t know you’re not around, but leaving a message on the answering machine or voicemail telling people you are away should be avoided.”

Suspending newspaper or magazine subscriptions is another way to thwart those with criminal intent during the holiday season.

“Ask your neighbours to collect your mail, park a car in your driveway and put your rubbish out for collection. Even just a few of these steps should be enough to keep your home safe this Christmas,” said Mr Raine.

Homes and possessions can be secured all year round by following these steps:

Don’t leave spare keys in obvious places;
Put small valuables such as cash or jewellery in a safe deposit box;
Mark or engrave valuables with your driver’s licence number and keep a list and photographs of them;
Keep home and contents insurance up-to-date.

About Raine & Horne

Raine & Horne is an iconic Australian property firm, with more than 300 offices worldwide, including Australia, Asia Pacific and Europe.

Established in 1883, Raine & Horne is a recognised Superbrand that has four distinct property service brands including Raine & Horne Residential, Raine & Horne Commercial, Raine & Horne Rural and Your Broker.

Executive Chairman and CEO, Angus Raine represents the fourth generation of his family to lead the global real estate brand.

–ENDS–

For further media information contact:

Angus Raine, Executive Chairman and CEO of Raine & Horne on 0409 920 697

Andrew Harrington, National Communications Manager, Raine & Horne on 02 9258 5400

Locks, lights and alarms could keep the crooks out this Christmas