SECURITY TIPS
Here are some useful tips some of which are fairly basic but, nevertheless, very important safeguards.
When leaving the premises for a short time -
Lock all external doors, windows etc.
Take keys out of locks and put them away. This makes it more difficult for thieves to make a quick exit if they have made a forced entry.
Never leave keys under doormats, flowerpots or hanging on a string beside the letterbox.
After dark, leave lights on (not just in the hallway) and close curtains. An automatic time switch can be fitted to lights. Leaving a radio on can also help as it gives the illusion there is someone on the premises.
Keep electrical equipment out of sight whenever possible.
If you are going to be away for a longer period of time, remember the following:-
Do not let everyone know that you are going to leave the property empty, but do tell the police.
Stop deliveries of such things as newspapers, water, etc., in advance.
Do not close curtains and this only advertises no-one is at home during the day.
Ensure premises are securely locked, windows shut and no spare keys are left outside.
Should you have any valuables, these could be taken to a bank.
Be careful when labelling holiday luggage with your home address. It has been known for unscrupulous people to hang around airports etc. taking note of addresses on luggage as this would indicate those premises will be empty for some time.
OTHER SECURITY TIPS
Credit cards. Always keep a list of card numbers and “lost or stolen” telephone number to ring if the worst happens. Keep the list separate from your handbag or wallet.
Passports.Take 2 photocopies. Keep one with you when you are travelling and leave the other in a secure place at home.
Keyrings. Never leave your address on your key ring. Never leave your car registration number on your car key ring.
Access to your house. If you are going away from home leave a spare set of keys with a friend along with your contact details.
Time clocks. Install a time clock to switch lights on and off while you are away.
Power supplies. Leave some electrical equipment running, e.g. a fridge. Thieves have been known to check the electricity meter to see if any power is being drawn. Alternatively contact your utility supplier and get a lock fitted to the power meter. For gas a lock on the meter box is the best answer.
Car parking. An empty driveway can be a give away. Ask a neighbor if they would occasionally park in your drive way.
Garden maintenance. Arrange to have your grass cut and for your trash bin to be put out and returned.
Carrying cash. Never have all your cash in one place. Spread it out across different bags and consider buying a money belt.
Old credit cards. Don’t throw out old credit cards. Keep them to put in a second wallet so if you have to surrender your wallet while being threatened you do not lose anything. The same advice can be applied to old passports.
Two wallets. As mentioned under “old credit cards” it is worth having a second wallet with a small amount of money and old credit cards just in case you are threatened.
Handbags. Always try and use a handbag which closes, ideally with a zipper. An open bag is a great temptation to pick pockets. Try and keep your important documents and cash in an inside pocket, not in a bag. It is too easy to snatch a bag.
Hotel details. When you leave your hotel take their business card with you. If you need to return in a hurry and a taxi driver cannot understand your instructions then show him the business card.
Backpacks. If you are carrying valuables in your backpack then consider placing some chicken wire in the base of the pack. This will prevent thieves slashing the base of the sack with a razor and stealing your valuables through the hole.
Be aware. You need to be aware of the “risk” times when you are travelling around a city. The best times for pick pockets tend to be when you are moving and distracted. For instance when you are getting off a busy tram or struggling with your shopping bags you come out of a shop.
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