Security for Seniors

'Practical ways to improve your security'

Seniors like everyone else have the right to feel safe at all times.

Research shows that those who appear confident and take security precautions are less likely to be victims of crime.

This brochure is designed to suggest ways in which seniors can increase their feeling of confidence in their own security by reducing the opportunities for crime.

At Home

Improve your physical security at home. Doors, locks, grilles, etc., are your first line of defence. Your home should be clearly visible to the street, neighbours and passers-by. Bushes and trees that obstruct a clear view of windows or doors provide perfect cover for intruders.

A good-quality security door on all your external doors helps with ventilation and is a barrier for unknown callers and offenders.

External doors should be of solid-core construction and fitted with deadlocks. When going out, certain deadlocks can be locked in such a way that they can only be unlocked with a key from either side. This prevents burglars getting into your home and being able to open the door to remove your property. When at home you can lock your deadlock so that it needs a key to open it from the outside, but can be opened with a lever or knob from the inside.

A door viewer (peephole) gives you a wide-angle view of the person on the other side of the door. Remember, do not open the door to a stranger no matter how urgent it sounds. CHECK FIRST and ask for identification before opening the door. If someone is seeking help leave that person outside while you make the emergency call.

Have quality keyed locks on all windows, unless the windows are grilled. Have all locks “keyed alike” so that one key will open all doors and one key opens all windows. Install security grilles on windows and doors you wish to open for ventilation, but have one or two window grilles hinged so you can exit in case of emergency.

Do not hide keys under flower pots or door mats. Don’t give keys to anyone you do not know – including tradespersons.

Wheelie bins should be locked away or chained to posts away from windows. Have a friend or neighbour in your absence bring in your wheelie bin after being emptied.

Identify your property by marking with an engraver or ultraviolet pen. Make use of the Queensland Police Service Property Tracing System. Marked property is a deterrent against theft.

If going out, even for a short period, make your home look “lived in” by having the radio or lights on. There are many security products on the market to help you feel secure. Once you have purchased or installed a security product, always use it.