We are experiencing a recent increase in car theft and home invasions being reported by our clients over the last few weeks. Our claims team have been discussing this with local industry partners and they are confirming that this is what they are seeing as well. Currently, for our clients, this is occurring between Southport and Coomera.
Carsafe.com.au reported a 9.2% increase in car theft across QLD this financial year against the last financial year.
Below are the top five vehicles stolen in 2019/20:
Click here to view your suburbs theft profile
Click here to view your vehicle risk rating
Hide your keys
Most of us have a usual spot to drop our keys when we get home. Make sure that this is not an obvious place so that thieves are unable to locate these quickly.
Be Alert
Take notice of cars and people in your neighbourhood and report suspicious activity - some of our recent thefts appear to be targeted.
Technology is your home sitter
Security products are far more afforable and alot easier to install and monitor than they used to be. Camera doorbells and security cameras are readily available through installers - or Bunnings if you are able to install yourself. Camera's with night mode on the front of your home and good street visibility make it more difficult for thieves to get onto the property undetected and can also provide the police with better leads if a theft does occur. Most new devices offer mobile alerts and allow you real time access to take action.
Smart plugs and switches allow timed and random access to turn on lights, tvs, music etc. These can deter home invasions by giving the appearance of someone being home.
All locked up
Police suggest many opportunistic thieves take advantage of unlocked homes. Even if you are going out for a short time, lock-up your house and windows. Locksmiths can provide advice on appropriate door and window locks, and key all the windows to a single key.
Also, ask your electricity supplier about locks for your power supply to prevent tampering, and keep your car locked. Police in Bundaberg, Queensland, for instance, have reported a case of a garage door opener stolen from a car, later used to burgle the owner's property.
Don't provide cover
Deter thieves from targeting your house by ensuring a clear line of sight from the street. Cut back trees and bushes that obscure your front door, look into installing movement sensor lights and report broken street lights straight away. Police also suggest making sure your house number is visible for the fastest response if you need to call for help.
Upgrade your defences
A high number of victims (60 per cent) in the ABS research cited a door or window had been damaged or tampered with in attempted break-ins, so it pays to invest in strengthening these defences. A solid core door with a deadlock, for example, is harder to force, grilles and shutters prevent burglars from breaking in through windows, and a peep hole or lockable security screen can help keep burglars out.
Monitor all targets
Garages and garden sheds are often targets for burglars who can then use your tools or ladders to gain access to the main house (police even report wheelie bins used to smash windows). An automatic light, for instance, fitted to the shed or garage can be a useful deterrent, along with keyed locks.
Security doesn't take a holiday
Ask friends to collect your mail and to stop junk mail from building up in your letterbox while you're away from home. A neighbour parking in your driveway can also help signal the house is not unoccupied. Other measures could include internal lights or a radio set on timers and organising for someone to mow your lawn.
Guard your keys
Most people know not to hide keys somewhere about the house but are you also aware that lending your keys to tradespeople and acquaintances can pose a risk? Keys are easily copied and can provide burglars with fast, no-fuss access to your belongings.
Install an alarm or deter thieves with a dog
Add another layer of defence to your home with an alarm system. A barking dog can also provide effective security for your home. Even installing a "Beware of the dog" sign can make thieves pause before targeting your home.
Make friends with your neighbours
In tight-knit communities, people look out for each other. Neighbours can report suspicious activity at your home and help when you're away - and you can return the favour.
Katherine (08) 7919 7019
2/46 Chardon St