Get that lived-in look

OVERFLOWING letterboxes and rubbish bins left out for days could prompt opportunistic criminals to target your house.
With summer holidays in full swing, the City of Greater Dandenong, Victoria Police and Neighbourhood Watch are encouraging holiday-goers to ensure their homes are kept safe and secure.
“Residents need to be vigilant and forward thinking as they plan their holidays,” Greater Dandenong mayor Youhorn Chea said.
“Overflowing letter boxes or rubbish bins left out for days make it clear that no-one is home, which may make your house a target for theft.
“Arranging for mail to be collected and lights to be put on at night are good ways to give the indication someone is home.”
House safety also includes checking all smoke detectors work properly and turning off power switches and taps before leaving the house for an extended time.
Security measures are also important for short trips away from the house.