Make sure all property is marked. This makes it easier for police to trace it if stolen, and deters thieves.

For more practical advice on how to improve security in your home, including a self audit security checklist and a property checklist  PDF (44KB) download a copy of Home security  PDF (437KB)or get a copy from the Community Programs Section at your local police station.

You'll find more tips for home safety and security in vehicle security, property security and identity crime.

If you are:

• a sick or frail elderly person, or
• have a disability, or
• care for or look after someone who is aged or disabled

the Home Assist Scheme can help you improve home safety and security.

 General tips

• Install a house alarm. Make sure you get a system that suits your needs.

• Fit smoke alarms. Make sure they work properly and change the batteries regularly.

• Make sure your house number is clearly visible from the street so emergency services can find you faster if needed.

• Install external lights that can be operated by inside switches or sensors that turn the lights on when someone approaches. This can also save you looking for keys or the keyhole in the dark.

• Don't leave implements such as garden spades, brooms, mops and so on at the rear of the premises - thieves can use these to force or break windows.

• Don't hide your spare keys outside. Consider a keysafe or leave them with a trusted friend, family or neighbour. Make sure any spare house keys or car keys kept inside the house are hidden.

• Make sure doors and windows are secure with appropriate locking devices. The Are you secure? brochure  PDF (496KB) gives you more advice on window and door locks, or you can get a copy from the Community Programs Section of your local police station.

Outdoor security

Lock all tools and ladders away after use.

Consider fitting a portable alarm in your shed.

Keep side gates locked and fencing in good condition to prevent easy access to your property.

Consider fitting outside automatic sensor activated lights.

Consider installing 'Beware of Dogs' signs on gates and fences.

Make sure your shed is in good repair. Use good quality locks to secure the doors and windows.

Check that your insurance covers the shed and the equipment that you store in it.

Consider securing your property within the shed. For example, chain bicycles, ladders and tools to a strong anchor point.

Prune back bushes and trees to allow neighbours or passers-by to see offenders in your yard.

When you are out

Ask your trusted neighbours to keep an eye on your property. If you have an alarm tell them what to do if the alarm is activated.

Secure all doors and windows before leaving.

Lock all garden tools and ladders away securely so they cannot be used to break into your home.

Turn your telephone and doorbell volume down to low.

Never leave a holiday message on your answering machine.

Turn off unnecessary appliances.

Use timer switches to turn on lights and radios. Tune to talk back programs as it gives an impression of people at home.

Cancel all regular deliveries.

Hang some old clothes on your clothes line.

Leave your curtains and blinds partially open. People will not be able to see straight in and you will create doubt about whether someone is home.

Ask a trusted neighbour to park their car in your driveway.

Take all spare keys with you when leaving the house.

Arrange collection of mail from your letter box, by a trusted neighbour or friend. Alternatively organise for Australia Post to hold your mail until you return.

Have junk mail collected daily or place a 'No Unauthorised Mail' sign on your letterbox.

Have your rubbish bins put out on the correct day by your neighbour or friend and brought in on the same day.

Leave emergency contact details with your trusted neighbour.

Ask neighbours to report any suspicious activity to police.

If you've been broken into

• Report the break in to the police - call 131 444.
• List the property that has been stolen.
• Contact your insurance company.
• Obtain quotes and organise to get any damage repaired.

If you see something

• Report it to BankSA Crime Stoppers on 1 800 333 000.

Support

If you are having trouble coping talk to:

• your doctor
• a counsellor at the Victim Support Service www.victimsa.org
• the Victim Contact Officer at your local police station.