In a perfect world, people could leave their doors and windows wide open 24/7 without fear of unwanted intrusions.
Those who live in remote areas may still be able to do so but, if you live in the suburbs, you will want to put security first.
A surprisingly high number of thieves enter homes through the front door. So, start with installing both a standard door knob or lever handle lock plus a deadbolt, which is much harder to pry or pick open.
Your front door should also have a peephole, a chain, and an updated frame, preferably a steel one.
Don’t forget to install a screen door with a strong locking system too. In fact, it’s more important to have a secure front screen door than an average timber one.
Why?
It’s easy for a burglar to kick down a timber door but a secure screen door is much harder to open.
Large windows, especially those at the front of a home, should also be secured with deadbolts, as should garden gates and sheds.
While it can be handy to leave a spare key outside to prevent lock-out situations, it’s much safer to keep a key with a trusted neighbour or nearby friend.
Extra security steps include installing CCTV cameras, a monitored alarm system and sensor lighting.
Victoria Police recommends other easy ideas to enhance home security such as leaving a dog bowl, or other canine evidence, at the front door.
VicPol also advises locking up tools, ladders and valuable items in a secure garden shed, garage or home safe.
Gated communities can be another excellent way to enhance security; however, they can also be a major source of annoyance, preventing online deliveries from reaching homeowners.
Gate codes can be a good idea, but a highly obvious one can be easily hacked. The codes should not be shared with delivery drivers, but residents will often break this rule for the sake of convenience, which then affects security for everyone.
Finally, neighbourhood surveillance is the cheapest and easiest way to ensure home security, so be sure to tell neighbours if someone or something looks suspicious around their homes.