New Zealanders Too Trusting

New Zealanders’ trusting nature is causing a worrying number of people to ignore their home and personal security, says a leading security advisor.

John McMullen, co-founder of Armstrong, one of New Zealand’s leading security firms, says many New Zealanders pay scant attention to their home security – until they get burgled.

“New Zealanders are a fairly trusting bunch compared to other countries. Many South African immigrants cannot understand the lack of security compared to their home country,’’ he says.

Mr McMullen is the NZ Director of the Master Locksmiths Association He has worked in the security industry for the past 30 years and his company now has franchises throughout the country.

Mr McMullen says investing in the right home security is one of the best investments people can make.

“People don’t think about their home security needs until they get burgled. Many consumers object to the price of various elements of a home security solution but have no idea what it actually costs. ‘’

A general security upgrade for an average three-bedroom home including doors, windows and latches, costs between $800 and $1200, while an alarm system costs about $1500.

“That is a relatively small amount to pay for peace of mind, particularly when you consider just how much value you have tied up in your home and possessions,’’ Mr McMullen says.

“People don’t know where to start, so they don’t. But ignorance is not a defence. Just picking up the phone and asking for the Armstrong home security check list can go a long way towards opening people’s eyes in terms of their security – or their lack of it.’’

Mr McMullen says home-owners need to consider:

• Are all windows fitted with an auxiliary keyed window locks? Are the keys readily available in an emergency?
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• Have you changed yours locks if you just moved into a new house, flat or apartment.
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• Is your back door fitted with simple two lever mortice locks? Fit a deadbolt and use in conjunction with mortice lock and handles. The back door of your home is more vulnerable than the front.
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• Have you fitted a deadbolt to the front door and all other external doors, including connecting door between garage and house?
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• Have you fitted a good quality padlocks on both sides of garage door if it does not have an automatic opener?
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• Have you fitted hinge bolts or pins to outward opening hinged doors, top and bottom?
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• Have you fitted sliding doors with auxiliary bolts?
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• Are all gates secured with quality weatherproof padlock and chain or keyless entry?
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• Do you have an alarm system? Is it monitored?
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• Have you included smoke detectors on your alarm system?
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• Are all entrances well illuminated?
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• Are all tree limbs trimmed to prevent access to upper floor windows or balconies?
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• Do you have an up-to-date home inventory including identifying numbers and pictures?
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