Northland Police are reminding everyone not to leave their common sense at home if they¡¯re heading away this holiday.
¡°You wouldn¡¯t think twice about locking up your usual home but throughout the holiday season we see too many campers leaving their belongings out in the open,¡± says Senior Sergeant John Fagan, Area Prevention Manager for Whangarei.
¡°If you¡¯re staying in a tent, caravan or bach, you are just as vulnerable to theft as you are back home.
¡°Every year we walk the campgrounds and see an overwhelming lack of security with personal belongings often left out in the open.
¡°You¡¯d never leave your phone on your front lawn so don¡¯t leave it on a picnic bench while you go for a swim.
¡°Lock it up in a vehicle, keep it well out of sight or just don¡¯t bring valuables.¡±
A number of people are also sharing details of their holiday plans on social media, which often makes it clear your home will be vacant.
¡°We want to prevent as many burglaries as we can but we need the public¡¯s help,¡± says Mr Fagan.
¡°People must take some responsibility for ensuring their home looks lived in and is secure.
¡°And providing information on social media that your home is vacant doesn¡¯t help.?
¡°Often these posts include information which could identify your address.¡±
When leaving your home, remember these key points:
-???????????? Locking your all doors and windows is often enough to put off an opportunistic burglar.
-???????????? Tell you neighbour when and where you¡¯re going.
-???????????? Ask your neighbours to report any suspicious activity too.
-???????????? Ask your neighbour to clear your mail box, close your curtains at night and to occasionally use your clothesline and driveway.
-???????????? Mute your landline phone ¨C a phone constantly ringing is indicates no one is home.
¡°Anything that makes your home look lived in helps prevent opportunistic burglaries,¡± says Mr Fagan.
¡°We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable break and a little common sense from everyone will help us achieve that.¡±
For more information on keeping your property secure, visit /advice/personal-community/protect-property-ve...
ENDS
Police Media Centre