Xmas Home Security Alert: Thieves Targeting Jewellery

Xmas Home Security Alert: Thieves Targeting Jewellery

21 December 2017 - Youi Insurance has today urged New Zealand householders to check they have adequate home security in place as Christmas holidays are a high-risk period for break-ins.

Close to 161,000 homes across the nation experienced a break-in between July 2014 and December 2016 according to the New Zealand Police statistics.

Youi CEO Frank Costigan said “New Zealand householders should put in place simple security measures that could easily reduce the opportunity for thieves to enter their home over the holidays.”

“Most home theft is random and opportunistic yet incidents of thieves targeting occupied homes and specific personal items are on the increase so it’s essential householders think about the basics when it comes to securing their homes.”

“Typically, jewellery is the most stolen item from homes with rings, necklaces, watches and bracelets among the main targets. Thieves also often target expensive Christmas gifts bought for loved ones,” said Mr Costigan.

“The most common entry point for thieves is an external door such as the front or back door yet many householders often leave doors open and unlocked, many also fail to lock deadlocks and windows are not always locked when they should be.”

“We recommend householders take a few basic and affordable security measures. Consider installing motion activated external lighting, a home alarm or home security camera system as these identifiable measures often deter thieves.”

“A common protection measure people often use when they go away is to ask a friend or trusted neighbour to collect mail and keep an eye on the home. Given the tremendous community spirt that exists across New Zealand it would be great to see trusted neighbors looking out for each other,” said Mr Costigan.

“When it comes to home security there were several common household practices that were basically like putting out a welcome mat for would-be thieves.”

“Never leave house keys in places like under doormats and pot plants as these are among the first places thieves will check when trying to break into a home.”

“By taking a few extra security steps this Christmas your belongings and gifts will be much more protected and you may avoid the trauma of a break-in over the holidays,” said Mr Costigan.

Youi NZ Christmas home security tips

1. Remember the basics – it’s no good installing locks and then not using them.

2. Make sure everyone in your home is equally security conscious. Have a routine that everyone follows to check door and window locks when the house is left unoccupied.

3. Don’t assume balcony doors or high windows are safe to leave unlocked – thieves are good at finding ways to overcome these obstacles.

4. Store easy-to-carry, expensive items such as laptops and jewellery away and out of sight so thieves can’t see them – consider installing a safe.

5. Don’t leave doors or windows wide open for long periods even while you’re at home.

6. Don’t leave car keys and wallets beside open windows or doors – car keys are being targeted by thieves.

7. Engage deadlocks when you leave the house so that thieves cannot carry items out through your main doors.

8. If you can’t arrange for someone to collect your mail when you’re on holiday, ask the post office to hold it until you return. Also, attach a ‘no advertising material’ sign to your letterbox so it doesn’t overflow.

9. Consider installing motion activated external lights, home alarm and security camera systems that will deter thieves.

10. Tell your neighbors if your home is broken into – then they can remember to be extra careful and alert to report any suspicious activity to police.

ENDS

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