A
home is a haven away from the world. It's the place we're at our most
comfortable and relaxed. Which is why it's important to be prepared should your
safety suddenly come under threat. By remembering these four steps, you'll be
able to help keep yourself and your family safe.
·
Go
to a safe place
·
Call
Triple Zero (000)
·
Do
your best to stay calm and think as clearly as possible
·
If
you can, put a physical barrier between you and the threat
HOW TO BE PREPARED
The best way to protect against a threatening situation in the home is to plan ahead. You can do this in a number of ways, beginning with these helpful tips and tricks. And before you know it, your home will be as safe as houses. Make sure your home is secure
·
Check
that the locks on all your windows and doors are working
·
Buy
timers for your lights, TV and radio
·
Ensure
your alarm and locks meet Australian standards
Don't be a stranger
Make an effort to introduce yourself to neighbours and do what you can to maintain a friendly relationship. If you know each other, you'll be more likely to look out for each other's safety.
Don't open the door to people you don't know
Before
opening the door, ask who's there. If it's a stranger, continue the conversation
through a locked screen door. If someone asks to use your phone, simply
direct them to the nearest public phone box, or make the call on their behalf,
leaving them outside your home.
Don't give out personal details
Try
not to give people on the phone or at the door your personal details, like
marital status, working hours, employment and the number of people living at
the house. If a company or institution needs your information, they can request
it in writing.
Check the credentials of tradespeople
If
you're not sure they are who they say they are, don't let them in. Ask for
formal identification and ring their company to double check.
Don't let kids answer the phone
If
your children are home alone, it's better that they don't answer the phone. By
letting calls go through to message bank, people won't be able to obtain
information about your whereabouts.
Trust your instincts
If you think someone is inside your home, don't enter the house. Call the police on Triple Zero (000) right away. Stay out of sight, at a safe distance from the house. If you see the intruders leave, take note of their appearance and car registration, make and colour.
Info Courtesy of Victoria Police
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