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Did you know that there were nearly 30,000 residential burglaries and 52,500 cases of criminal property damage in Victoria in the past year? (Victoria Police Statistics 2006/07).

During holiday seasons, house-breaking is one of the most common crimes.

There are steps you and your family can take to 'holiday-proof' your home to minimise your chances of being a victim.

• Most break-ins are crimes of opportunity with entry gained through an unlocked door or window. Ensure all points of entry are locked securely before leaving
• Your home should be clearly visible to the street, neighbours and passers-by; overgrown gardens provide perfect cover for would-be intruders
• Cancel milk, papers and any other home-delivered items
• Have mail re-directed or collected by neighbour/friend
• Have lawn mowed by neighbour/friend
• Divert your home phone to your mobile or lower the ringtone
• Lock away wheelie bins or chain to posts (away from windows)
• Set your radio and house lights to timers (tune radio to talkback station)
• Hang some old clothes on the line and leave some old shoes at the door
• Inform local police of your absence and leave a contact name and number