Sergeant Meg Owens from the Bundaberg Crime Management division recently had a conversation with Mayor Les Hotz regarding increased incidences of theft in the region. Sergeant Owens expressed an urgency for North Burnett residents to be vigilant about theft and securing their personal property. Sergeant Owens shared simple steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of theft:
- Keep car keys, house keys, mobile phones, handbags, and wallets out of sight.
- Ensure that all external doors, including that of your garage and home are solid and fitted with quality deadlocks that are always locked with a key, even when you are home.
- Consider fitting security screen doors and security screens on windows.
- Mount an intruder alarm or camera system designed and installed to Australian Standards.
- Install a door viewer that allows you to see the person before you open the door.
“Common incidences of theft involve stolen vehicles. Thieves target car keys which are often left in sight, or in common, easy to access places. In the event they are stolen it is important to have vehicle keys and locks to your house and car replaced or keyless security reprogrammed immediately as thieves can return after their initial break in if they already have your keys, Mayor Hotz explained.
“Homes with windows or doors left open or unsecured are more likely to attract a potential burglar. Similarly, curtains closed during the day and mail left to accumulate will indicate you are not home and increase your risk of an opportunistic break in. Thieves are often looking for cash or credit cards, small valuable items and electronic items which can be quickly sold for cash. It’s also good practice to lock away items of value such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden tools and keep your garage locked.”
It can be beneficial to educate yourself about the risk of theft in your area through the use of the Queensland Police Service online map, found online here. Click on ‘Online Crime Map’ to find details of reported offences in your area.
Communities that have strong networks of communication can support each other to prevent and deal with theft. One recommended means of doing this is joining or forming a local Neighbourhood Watch Group. To find out more information, visit the Neighbourhood Watch website.
Remember if a crime is happening now, call triple zero (000). If not, think Policelink report online or via 131 444. Residents can also sign up for news and alerts at the Queensland Police website.
Media Contact
1300 696 272 | media@northburnett.qld.gov.au