When it comes to high-rise residential buildings and apartments, security is essential.
The majority of break-ins are opportunistic, especially when there is evidence of quick and easy entry and unsecured valuables are visible.
What you can do to secure you property:
- Having good individual routines and habits is essential in safeguarding all residents.
- Identify management’s role and function in your building and have relevant phone numbers saved in your phone.
- Ensure you are aware of building evacuation and safety procedures.
- Close any communal doors that are open and unattended.
- Avoid lending keys to anyone, even if they are someone you trust.
- Make sure you have properly fitted deadlocks and windows locks.
- Always keep your balcony screen doors locked, even when you are home and it is night time.
- Avoid storing excess belongings and valuables in garage areas and lock-up garages.
- Keep your bicycle in a locked storage area where possible and consider removing the wheel or seat when not in use.
- Take a photograph of your bicycle, including the serial number and save it in your records.
- Secure bicycles and motorcycles if possible, to something solid in the absence of a locked storage area. Use additional security measures for motorcycles.
- Remove all valuables (including garage remotes) and personal items when leaving your car unattended or ensure they are out of sight.
- Always lock your car, including the boot, and remember to fully close all windows.
- Secure your registration plates with anti-theft screws.
- Check the garage door closes completely each time you enter and exit, so that potential offenders cannot sneak in.
Always remember:
A lapse in security of communal areas including garages compromises the security of the whole building.
Due to the nature of multi-residential living it is easy to underestimate the benefits of knowing your neighbour.
If you and your neighbour are aware of each other’s general habits, you can help prevent crime by being alert to anything out of the ordinary.
Police also encourage you to consider joining your local Neighbourhood Watch Group at www.nhwg.org.au
Reduce your risk of break-in
Building managers who are diligent in maintaining building rules have shown to be very effective in preventing crime. Parking, storage, maintenance and common area expectations should be monitored and applied consistently.
Some apartment complexes have an intercom system. Used properly, this is an invaluable security tool because the occupants of units can control the entry of visitors to their building. The intercom system acts as an effective deterrent to offenders. If a person asks to be allowed access and you do not know them, refer them to management.
Legitimate visitors may still be potential offenders, avoid allowing them unsupervised access to communal areas of the building. You are responsible for your visitors. Make sure they behave in an appropriate manner when in your building.
Communal areas, such as laundries, staircases and swimming pools, require extra consideration from all occupants. Keyed access to these areas helps maintain security of the building.
Many high-rise break-ins occur through open or unlocked balcony doors. Living several floors up doesn’t offer absolute security from intruders. Poor security habits can allow an intruder easy access to your home. External doors and screens to balconies should be locked when the unit is unmonitored.
Lighting is a valuable deterrent. Ideally, it should illuminate entry and exit points, fire exits, stairwells and other vulnerable areas. It is recommended that foliage and lighting are well maintained to ensure clear sight lines and limited areas of concealment.
Garages, stored property, vehicles and motorcycles are common targets for thieves. Most high-rise units have lifts for access. Ideally, occupants should only have access to their own level and common areas.
If a crime is happening now call Triple Zero (000).
If not, think Policelink 131 444 or report online.
This information has been provided by Queensland Police. Visit mypolice.qld.gov.au for more information and to sign up for news and alerts.
