Do You Know Your Neighbour

City slickers are almost three times more likely than country folk to have no relationship with their neighbours, according to research (conducted by Woolcott Research November 2005) released recently by NRMA Insurance.

NRMA Insurance claims data reveals that four out of five burglaries happen when people are away from their home - meaning that vigilant and trustworthy neighbours could play an important role in protecting homes.

The research revealed that 17% of people who live in capital cities admit to not knowing their neighbours at all, while 19% know them very well.

Among those in rural and regional Australia the numbers change significantly with only 6% saying they don't know their neighbours and 27% know them very well.

Overall, Queenslanders proved to be slightly friendlier than resident’s interstate with one in four knowing their neighbours very well.  However, around one in eight Queenslanders do not know their neighbours at all.

NRMA Insurance spokesperson, said everyone should take the time to get to know their neighbours, particularly if they're going away for extended periods.

"There are potentially many mutual benefits of getting to know trustworthy neighbours. For example many neighbours are willing to collect the mail, maintain the garden and feed pets when you're away. And neighbours keeping an eye on your premises, especially when you're on holidays, can be a great form of home security," she said.

The research also revealed that 25% of flat/unit occupants and 21% of people aged 25-34 years also admit to not having any relationship with neighbours.

"Interestingly, it is these groups that are more likely to be burgled.”

For more information on how you can keep your home safe pick up a copy of the ‘Security in the Home’ brochure from your local police station.