The City of Gosnells is encouraging residents to have an especially safe Christmas and New Year period this year, by being aware of home and vehicle security during the festive season.
City of Gosnells Mayor Terresa Lynes said the City was partnering with local police stations and Gosnells District Neighbourhood Watch to spread the word about community safety.
“There are simple but effective ways to reduce your chances of being a victim of burglary during the holiday period, and we want to encourage residents to take as many of these steps as possible,” she said.
“Opportunistic burglaries and delivery scams are a considerable problem at this time of year and we don’t want anyone’s celebrations to be spoiled in this way.
“Christmas is a perfect time to get to know your neighbours with a Street Meet and Greet event, or you could take advantage of time off work to apply for a rebate for an effective CCTV system through the City’s Safe City Community CCTV Program.”
Summer holiday security tips released by Neighbourhood Watch Australasia include:
• Making sure windows, doors and garages can be securely locked at night or when you leave home – especially if Christmas light cords are run through windows or doors.
• Avoiding placing gifts where they can be seen from outside the house, and always making sure they are out of sight in the car.
• Being aware of fake delivery scams – do not click on any links sent to you and check the sender’s email address or the website address provided.
• Remembering to lock your car and avoid leaving keys by the front door where they can be easily stolen. Do not tag keys with personal information such as names and addresses.
• Telling family and close friends of your holiday plans and sharing your itinerary and contact information in case of emergency – but don’t post it on social media.
• Arranging secure delivery for packages and other mail, whether at your local post office or with a trusted neighbour.
Details about the Street Meet and Greet program and the Safe City Community CCTV rebate are available on the City’s website. More holiday security tips can be found on the Neighbourhood Watch Australasia website at nhwa.com.au.
Caption – Senior Sergeant Dean Kelland and City of Gosnells Mayor Terresa Lynes have home and vehicle security at the top of their Christmas wish lists this year.
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