Alarming new figures show almost one in three Australians over 50 (31%) have been the victim of a break-in while at home, according to new research from leading national over 50s insurance provider Apia[1].
Even more disturbingly, almost two-thirds (63%) of those who have had their home broken into while they were there, were not even aware the intruder was in the house.
Apia Executive Manager Craig Dingle said the research highlighted the importance of older residents remaining security conscious, even when at home.
“Apia’s research found that a third of Australians over 50 (33%) admit they are apprehensive or uneasy about leaving their home empty when they go on holidays in case it is broken into while they are away, but the data shows that many thefts can occur even when the home is occupied,” Mr Dingle said.
“Coming face to face with an intruder during a home invasion can be a frightening and dangerous experience, so it makes sense to reduce the risk of a break-in by following some basic security precautions while at home.
“Consider taking some simple steps like locking external doors and windows if you’re going to be out in the garden or in another area of the house, and not leaving handbags or keys within easy reach of open windows.
“On a more positive note, our research actually found that people over 50 were the most likely of all age groups to warn others in the neighbourhood if they were the victim of a break-in, with 87% saying that they would alert their neighbours to the risk,” Mr Dingle said.
Apia’s research also found that many people aged over 50 failed to take basic security measures to protect their home when they went out.
- 17% of over 50s nationally said they sometimes left a spare house key under a door mat or pot plant.
- 34% said they sometimes left their front or back door unlocked when they probably shouldn’t.
- 28% said they sometimes left window locks unlocked.
- 39% of people aged over 50 with home security systems admit they sometimes go out without switching the alarm on.
“Opportunistic thieves will take advantage of an unlocked door or unlatched window to break into a home, so taking some simple home security precautions can make a big difference,” Mr Dingle said.
“Apia encourages all Australians, regardless of age, to remain security conscious and stay safe both at home and when out and about.”
Rebecca Aley, Apia
[1] Apia’s research is based on an independent internet survey conducted by Newspoll of 2,812 Australians aged 18 years and over across all states and territories between February and March 2010. Collected data is carefully weighted in line with current ABS population demographics to ensure any extrapolation of results is representative of age, gender and population on a regional, state and national basis.
