SGIC Issues Warning to Lock Up Before Easter
SGIC is issuing a security reminder to South Australians to lock up before Easter in response to a survey where 43 per cent of respondents admitted to leaving windows and doors unlocked when out.
Adelaide, South Australia (PRWEB) April 15, 2009 -- Home insurance provider SGIC is urging South Aussies to lock up before hopping off for the Easter long weekend, with results of its latest survey showing 43 per cent* of respondents sometimes leave windows or doors unlocked while out.
With home burglars able to fit almost all of the top 10 most commonly stolen items into a backpack**, SGIC's State Manager Lee Jameson said the survey results were a timely reminder to secure your home before going away for an extended period of time.
"We know thieves are opportunistic, so if they see an unlocked window for example, they're likely to take full advantage of it," Ms Jameson said.
"We're encouraging everyone to lock up - regardless of whether you're away for five minutes or five days - because thieves just need a few minutes to break-in and steal your valuables."
Ms Jameson also encouraged householders to consider deadlocks and home security systems.
"Both deadlocks and alarms are proven deterrents for thieves, and they're also factored into your insurance premium - helping you to save money in the long run," she said.
"By taking a few simple measures, you can help minimise the likelihood of your home being broken into."
SGIC estimates theft costs the SA community about $18 million a year, with small items, such as cameras, game consoles, MP3 players, cash and notebook computers the most commonly stolen items.**
Visit the SGIC website for more information on home security and SGIC's home security and monitoring service.
SGIC's tips to help deter burglars:
- lock the house every time you go out,
- if going on holidays, ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your house and collect mail and newspapers,
- don't leave packaging for expensive items around your home or in the driveway,
- keep your home looking lived in with open blinds and timer switches on lights,
- never leave a message on your answering machine saying you're not home,
- mark your driver's licence number and State on the back of all electronic items,
- keep your car keys somewhere safe as home burglars may steal a car if the opportunity presents, and
- secure garages and garden sheds, and remove valuables from your garden.
*Survey of 700 Australian households carried out by Woolcott Research on behalf of SGIC, February 2009.
**Based on SGIC claims data.
About SGIC:
SGIC is a leading insurer in South Australia offering car insurance, home contents insurance and more.
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