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Banish the burglars

19 December 2019

Banish the burglars

Don’t get caught out by household theft

Household burglary is one of the most widespread crimes in Australia. January is the worst month for home burglaries – windows are left open due to hot weather, people take holidays and share it on social media and doors are unlocked as residents spend time in the garden.

Lock up

This may seem obvious, but is often overlooked. Look in to deadlocks and don't hand thieves the tools to break in from your garage or shed. Ditto to keys – leave spare keys with a trusted neighbour, friend or family member. And while you’re locking things, don’t forget the fuse box if it's outside.

Make noise

Consider a dog and install an alarm. Both make noises that thieves don’t like. And consider fitting a timer switch that allows the lights, radio and TV to come on and go off now and again.

Be seen

Thieves don’t like being seen so make your house visible from the street. Trim trees and plants, leave a light on and get friendly with the neighbours. And don’t provide access to your home and please verify the identity of any charity collectors, tradespeople or salespeople.

Ensure that your home and contents are adequately covered with the right insurance policy for you. Account for any purchases in your policy, keep an inventory of possessions, and update your policy with any new fixtures or fittings that could be damaged.

Insurance issued by Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722 trading as CGU Insurance. Any advice is general only. Consider the relevant PDS available from cgu.com.au to see if a product is right for you.