Long weekend warning: lock up or lose it SEQ
Media
Queenslanders have been urged to implement basic safety measures to protect their home from theft ahead of the upcoming long weekends.
The warning came as RACQ insurance data revealed 3,819 claims for home theft in the past three years, with Brisbane South, Logan/Beaudesert, Gold Coast and Ipswich the worst hit areas.
RACQ spokesperson Kirsty Clinton warned Queenslanders not to become complacent after spending significant amounts of time at home in 2020.
“It’s great to see everyone getting out and about again and enjoying our great State, but before you head off for the long weekends, take a few minutes to ensure you protect your property,” Ms Clinton said.
“The simplest things are often easily forgotten, so make sure you double check you’ve locked all doors and windows before you set off.
“Don’t advertise on social media that you’re on holidays, you can post your happy snaps when you return.
“If you’re heading away for a longer period of time, ask a trusted neighbour or friend to check your mail, mow your lawn and take your bins in and out. A neglected home, which is normally neat and tidy, is a clear sign no one is about.
“If you can afford to, invest in a timer for your lights or television, a security camera or even technology which allows you to control features in your home via your phone.
“And make sure your insurance cover is up to date to ensure your valuables can be replaced in the event of threat.”
Top five regions for home theft claims from 1 April 2018 - 31 March 2021:
1. Brisbane South – 521 claims
2. Logan – Beaudesert – 488 claims
3. Gold Coast – 453 claims
4. Ipswich – 249 claims
5. Brisbane Inner City – 235 claims.
RACQ spokesperson Kirsty Clinton warned Queenslanders not to become complacent after spending significant amounts of time at home in 2020.
“It’s great to see everyone getting out and about again and enjoying our great State, but before you head off for the long weekends, take a few minutes to ensure you protect your property,” Ms Clinton said.
“The simplest things are often easily forgotten, so make sure you double check you’ve locked all doors and windows before you set off.
“Don’t advertise on social media that you’re on holidays, you can post your happy snaps when you return.
“If you’re heading away for a longer period of time, ask a trusted neighbour or friend to check your mail, mow your lawn and take your bins in and out. A neglected home, which is normally neat and tidy, is a clear sign no one is about.
“If you can afford to, invest in a timer for your lights or television, a security camera or even technology which allows you to control features in your home via your phone.
“And make sure your insurance cover is up to date to ensure your valuables can be replaced in the event of threat.”
Top five regions for home theft claims from 1 April 2018 - 31 March 2021:
1. Brisbane South – 521 claims
2. Logan – Beaudesert – 488 claims
3. Gold Coast – 453 claims
4. Ipswich – 249 claims
5. Brisbane Inner City – 235 claims.
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The information in this article has been prepared for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice or specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained in the document is general advice, not intended as legal advice or professional advice and does not take into account any person’s particular circumstances. Before acting on anything based on this advice you should consider its appropriateness to you, having regard to your objectives and needs.