Neighbourhood Support – Police share home security essentials 

We recently held a “Let’s Connect” session at the Ōrewa Library with Police Constable Sam Webb, focusing on a critical reality for our community: house burglary, which is often a crime of opportunity.

A key point of discussion was the importance of keeping doors and garages locked even when you are at home. It is a common problem; an open garage or an unlocked front door can be a silent invitation to a thief. If you are in the garden or another part of the house, you may not hear someone entering, and by then, the opportunity has already been taken.

We discussed that criminals often “scope out” targets from the street. If a property looks difficult to access, an opportunist will usually move on. By viewing your home through the eyes of a prowler and removing those easy points of entry, you can make your property a less attractive target.

The session also touched on the growing importance of digital security – a topic we’ll explore further in the coming months.

Practical tips for a safer home

Hardening the exterior

Visibility is key: Motion-sensor security lights, focusing on dark corners and entry points is a key deterrent.

Strategic landscaping: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed, especially around windows, to eliminate hiding spots. Consider “defensive gardening” by planting prickly shrubs like roses or bougainvillea under windows.

Noise as a deterrent: Using gravel for paths around the perimeter of your property provides an excellent audible warning of anyone approaching.

Don’t provide the tools: Ensure ladders, tools, and even wheelie bins are locked away. These are often used by intruders to gain access to second-story windows or to climb fences.

Internal reinforcements

Better bolts: Use deadlocks on external doors. For sliding doors, patio bolts are effective, but a simple piece of doweling placed in the tracks can also act as a sturdy physical barrier.

The garage link: Always lock the internal door between your garage and the house. If you are heading away for a holiday, consider disconnecting automatic garage openers to prevent electronic “fishing.”

The “Lived-In” look: If you are heading away, the goal is to make it appear as though you never left.

Use timers on internal lights

Arrange for a neighbour to clear your mail and perhaps park their car in your driveway.

Social media caution: Wait until you are safely back home before posting those vacation photos.

Technology and community ties: Tech like wireless cameras and alarms are excellent deterrents, but one of the most effective tools is free: community connection. Getting to know your neighbors remains one of the strongest defenses against local crime.

To further protect your home and street, Hibiscus Coast Neighbourhood Support encourages residents to join a local group and stay informed on regional safety initiatives. Join us https://hcns.org