Daily people contacts reduce crime & fear

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 431, 7 April 1992, Page 4

Daily people contacts reduce crime & fear

Crime levels can be reduced and fear of crime lowered by an effective network system such as Neighbourhood or Rural Watch and support schemes, says Inspector Roger Honan, national co-ordinator of crime prevention. "There is simply no substitute for daily contact between people, and knowing there is someone to tum to," he adds. Confronted by a changing society, a neighbourhood network system restores values, replaces communication, epitomises community spirit and provides an effective springboard to address a wide range of diverse community issues from personal protection to wandering dogs. Direct involvement by people and organisations in their own communities reduces the fear of crime and provides support systems for any situation. New Zealand remains one of the safest countries in the world. "However, we must never adopt an attitude of complacency," he says. Basic precautions he recommends are:Personal protections • Common sense is your best defence: For example, if you come home and suspect there is a burglar inside, don't enter but go to a neighbour's house and call the Police. • Avoid high risk situations: Think twice about putting yourself into isolated or unlit locations, particularly where you are alone with strangers you feel uncomfortable with, and don't invite strangers into your home. • Don't try to tackle an intruder: Think about what you would do if you surprised a burglar. If possible, leave the house and call the police. Don't confront or attack an intruder with a weapon if that can be avoided. • Identify callers: Before opening the door fully, identify callers

either through a viewer or while the door is on its chain. Ask for identification if you're doubtful about a caller's credentials, and use the phone to confirm if necessary. Phone the police if you feel you are in danger. • Unknown phone callers: Never let on that you're alone and, if necessary, indicate there are others in the house. • Join your community support network: Neighbourhood and Rural Watch/Support have been established specifically to increase your confidence and provide you with some protection. • Think and plan ahead: Identify the sort of emergency situations you might be faced with and work out contingency plans with your family, friends or neighbours. • Take a friend: If you're nervous about where you're going, travel or shop with a companion. Property protection • Protecting your home: Burglars look for easy opportunities. About 80% of all burglaries occur because of an open window or door, an unlocked window or door or poor quality locks. • Deterring criminals: Home security is about reducing easy access by installing effective locks and window latches - and remembering to use them whenever you leave the house. • Security systems: With many types on the market it can be confusing but consider the use of automatic internal and external lighting (the type which detects heat or movement) and, if money permits, a basic indoor alarm system. Your local police station can provide information about home security and locksmiths will advise on security systems. • Don't advertise you're away: Amazing

how many people forget all the advice given over the years and still advertise to burglars that the house is empty. Some of the key points are: • Join your local Neighbourhood or Rural Watch/Support Group - and if there isn't one, ask the local Police how to set one up. • Shut the garage door when you've driven away because an empty garage is a sure sign that the house may be empty. • If you expect to return home after dark, turn on an inside light or two before you leave because a dark house tells burglars the occupants are out. • If you're going away from more than a day, let you neighbour know and provide a contact phone number if available. Have a neighbour park his/her car in your driveway and hang washing on your clothesline. • Cancel newspapers when you go away and ask your neighbour to collect the mail. • Don't leave the keys under the mat or in any 'secret' spot which even a burglar can work out. • Keep blinds and curtains open. • Remember to put out the gumboots! Make sure you have the right guidance: Ask your local police station for copies of the crime prevention booklets on protecting yourself and your private property.