RACV is urging Victorians to enhance home security measures due to an increase in residential burglaries.
According to the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency, there were 48,213 burglaries and break and enter offences in Victorian residential homes in 2024. That was an increase of more than 19% compared to 2023.
“With the notable rise in home burglaries, it’s crucial that we all take action to safeguard our property and remove the opportunities that thieves look for,ā RACV general manager Bill Bloodworth says.
āSimple steps can help deter potential thieves and protect valuable possessions.”
A RACV poll revealed the most common security tips to prevent a break in and burglary. To help home owners enhance security, RACV recommends the following:
- Secure entry points: Lock all doors, windows, gates, sheds, pet doors, skylights and access points
- Install security systems: Use a reliable security system with surveillance cameras in and outside the house
- Maintain a lived-in appearance: Use timers to turn on lights, radios or TV at appropriate times to give an impression someone in home
- Safeguard valuables and car keys: Keep money, jewellery and other valuables in secure locations such as a locked safe or a hidden drawer. Also, make sure the car keys arenāt visible as thieves can use them to steal your vehicle
- Be mindful of online activity: Avoid showing holiday plans on social media as it can point burglars to an unattended home
RACV also says to pay attention on the type of locks on doors, as some lock-types can be more vulnerable to break in than others.
For example, a knob and lever handle should never be the primary door lock as someone can break off the knob and twist the latch to access the property. Use a deadbolt or deadlock on the front door instead to increase safety. The How Safe is My Place quiz is a resource to help identify safety issues around the home and for more information on home security and additional tips, visit the RACV website.
