Guarding against grinches: Tasmanians encouraged to safeguard homes this Christmas
Published | 21 December 2023
Tasmanians are being encouraged to take home security seriously and secure their home during the holidays to help foil festive break-ins.
In light of data* showing a 34% increase in burglaries in Tasmania last financial year, our Chief Insurance Officer Patrick Riley said there was a need for Tasmanians to prepare their homes in the lead up to Christmas.
"Many families head off to relax with family and friends over Christmas and the school holidays, leaving their homes unoccupied and potentially susceptible to theft," Mr Riley said.
"Commonly stolen household items include jewellery, laptops, and gaming consoles.
“During the festive season, we often see a spike in home thefts, and we’re encouraging all Tasmanians to take some simple steps to safeguard their home and contents against burglaries."
"Prevention is the simplest way to ensure your home is safe during the holidays.
"Before you leave your home, make sure it looks occupied, install window locks and alarm systems, deadlock all doors, windows, gates, sheds, and garages and tell neighbours how long you will be away for.
"If you’re expecting a delivery, make sure it’s scheduled for a time you’re home or make arrangements for it to be hidden from view to opportunistic thieves passing by," he said.
Homeowners are also being urged to check their home and contents insurance policies are up to date.
Mr Riley said while being security conscious can make a big difference, theft can still happen.
“Maintaining a home and contents insurance policy can ease the worry of the financial burden of a theft or break-in.
“Ensure all your details are current and you have sufficient cover."
We've compiled our top 9 security tips for homeowners during the summer:
1. Avoid sharing travel plans on social media to prevent thieves from targeting your home.
2. Keep your garden tidy before leaving to minimise hiding spots for thieves.
3. Consider having a trusted person watch your home, collect mail, and prevent signs of vacancy.
4. Lock up your garden shed to prevent thieves from accessing tools that could be used for break-ins.
5. Ensure strong locks on windows and doors; consider security screens and deadbolts.
6. Disable the power supply to automatic garage doors to prevent unauthorised access.
7. Avoid hiding spare keys; instead, leave them with trusted individuals.
8. Explore smart home security options, including surveillance cameras and timed lighting.
9. Consider using Bluetooth trackers for belongings like bikes.