It is expected that many individuals and families may pack the car and head to the beach, out camping or to visit family and friends during the next few weeks.
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Nobody wants to return to Ballarat to find their home has been burgled after such a challenging 18-months, so The Courier asked police if they could share their top home security tips.
Ballarat Local Area Commander, Inspector Terry Hay, said that while police would be proactively patrolling the community to "detect and deter home burglaries" during the next few weeks, residents also had a role to play to ensure they leave their homes secured.
"We want everyone to return from summer holidays to find their homes in the same condition as when they left them," Inspector Hay said.
We want everyone to return from summer holidays to find their homes in the same condition as when they left them. There are a few simple steps that can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your home from holiday thieves.
- Inspector Terry Hay
"There are a few simple steps that can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your home from holiday thieves."
He said locking the garage as well as doors and windows with "good quality locks" was one of the best ways to deter an opportunistic thief.
These are people who may try doors and windows on a number of houses until they find one left unlocked that can easily be targeted, so it is also important to keep any valuables out of view.
Inspector Hay encouraged cancelling newspaper subscriptions so they do not pile up on the front lawn, while deliveries can be redirected to your local post office.
Inspector Hay said asking a trusted neighbour, friend or family member to regularly check on your home was also worthwhile.
This person can also be asked to bring in the mail and take the bins in and out so the house appears as though it is being lived in.
Another idea along these lines is to leave a light switched on or set a timer on a TV and radio, so it switches on at certain times.
A car can also be parked, and locked, in the driveway though the front gate should be locked.
"People should also think carefully before posting their holiday plans on social media - you never know who could be watching and waiting for you to leave," Inspector Hay warned.
People can also consider postponing posting any holiday snaps on their social media accounts until after they return home.
Inspector Hay also encouraged people to complete an Absence of Residence form, which can be found on the Victoria Police website.
Filling in this form lets police know you will be away and can also help to inform where police routinely conduct their patrols.
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