By Bonny Burrows
Cardinia police officers have encouraged residents to be proactive rather than reactive to crime.
Police told residents at the Cardinia Neighbourhood Watch crime forum in Beaconsfield on 15 August, that a large percentage of crime was opportunistic.
They told the meeting about the small steps people can take to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of crime.
Pakenham police Senior Sergeant Nathan Prowd started the session by reassuring locals that the majority of the community did the right thing.
“It’s really important to remember that it is a small amount of people committing a large portion of the crimes,” Sen Sgt Prowd said.
However, he said that they could be deterred through a few preventative measures.
While police were 100 per cent dedicated to protecting the community, crime prevention started with the individual, Sen Sgt Prowd said.
“It’s the small actions everyone takes that will ensure we’re all a little bit safer,” Sen Sgt Proud said.
“And you’re the locals in your community, so you know what’s suspicious or out of place.”
Crime Prevention Officer Leading Senior Constable Frank Bailey agreed, pointing to simple measures such as locking doors, putting valuable goods away from sight and making homes appear occupied at all times.
He said 70 per cent of car thefts involved the use of car keys.
“Offenders target specific weaknesses in people’s habits, such as leaving doors unlocked,” Sen Const Bailey said.
“Everyone can control that part of the offence.”
Sen Sgt Prowd said police couldn’t prosecute their way out of crime problems in the community.
“What is going on that is causing these individuals to commit these crimes? That’s what we need to understand,” Sen Sgt Prowd said.
Changing community behaviour was also important, according to police.
Ldg Sen Const Bailey said implementing increased security measures “might not stop a crime, but it will reduce the likelihood.”
“Often, if they see there’s additional security, an offender will think they might as well look elsewhere (to commit a crime),” Ldg Sen Const Bailey said.
The session was the first of many that police and Neighbourhood Watch hope to run across the shire in the next 12 months to promote a “healthy regard” for personal safety and wellbeing in the community.
Key crime prevention tips
– Anyone who sees something should say something. Report potential crimes to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or for immediate assistance phone triple zero;
– Lock all house and vehicle doors and windows;
– Make it look like someone is home when the home is vacant. Police recommend the use of phone applications which allow people to activate lights and electronics while away;
– Secure valuables in a safe or hidden place;
– Mark valuable property with identification;
– Always part vehicles in a well-lit and secure area;
– Stay alert when out in public;
– Use anti-theft screws on vehicle number plates;
– In the event of crime, do not try to get in the offender’s way.
