By Laura Wakely
ARDEER is the top spot for burglaries in Victoria, with one in 15 homes burgled in the past 12 months.
An RACV study found Ardeer had a massive increase in burglaries, with one in 42 homes burgled last year.
Deer Park was also in the top 10 with one in 30 homes burgled while western suburbs such as Footscray, Braybrook and Hoppers Crossing also featured on the list.
Eastern and south eastern suburbs reported a decrease in burglary rates according to the RACV study.
Brimbank Burglary Unit Sergeant Andrew Button said burglaries were a problem across Brimbank.
“It’s an ongoing concern,” Sgt Button said.
“Unfortunately there’s a number each day that occur, mostly residential.”
Sgt Button said perpetrators were usually looking for electrical goods and jewellery.
He warned residents to look out for any strange cars or people, anything out of place and even door-to-door salespeople who don’t seem to be legitimate.
Meanwhile, RACV General Manager of Home Services Peter Brindley said burglary rates had declined in the eastern and south eastern suburbs over the past decade.
He said the figures were a “timely reminder” for people to safeguard their homes.
“Installing a burglar alarm and connecting a professional home security monitoring service to an existing or new burglar alarm, is one of the most effective ways to deter thieves,” Mr Brindley said.
“You should always lock your doors and windows before you leave, even if it is just a quick trip, and ensure your mail is collected and papers are cancelled if you are on holidays.”
