Waitakere New Settlers' Guide 2009 - Auckland Council

A Police message to the migrant communities in WaitakereWaitakere is a safe place to live in. There are no particular suburbs that can be classed as unsafebut as in all cities some areas can be defined as better than others. If you are new in the city,making use of the tips given below will help you to reduce your vulnerability to becoming a victimof crime.Motor vehicle crime:• Make sure you lock your car’s ignition and remove the keys before you leave your car, even if ata petrol station or shop.• Make sure that you lock all doors and windows and do not leave any valuables in the car whichcan be seen from outside.• Do not leave purses, handbags or important documents such as credit cards, ownership papersand insurance papers in an unattended car.• Look for well-lit areas to park the car at night-time.• If your car is stolen, report this immediately to the police.• Mark auto accessories with your driver licence number.Accessories such as wheels and wheel covers can be engraved.Prevention against burglaries:• An alarm system is one of the most effective crime prevention deterrents.• Make sure appropriate security bolts are fitted to all doors and windows.• If you are planning to be away for a long period of time on holiday, giving your house a livedinlook can be a deterrent to burglars. Have a neighbour empty your letterbox and arrangethe lawn-mowing to be done before you leave. Uncut lawns can only help to make your housestand out.• Automatic sensor lighting covering each exterior doorway can also add security to the house.• Do not hide keys in the mailbox, planters, under doormats or other places at your residence.• Keep your house number clearly visible from the street both day and night to reduce emergencyservices response time to emergency calls.• Get to know your neighbours. They can be your biggest security measure to help protect yourhome.While you are shopping:• Do not carry large sums of cash when shopping. If you must, then divide it between purse andpockets.• Do not leave your purse or wallet on the seat beside you when you drive. Lock the car and carrya cell phone with you.• Do not leave your purse open or unattended in the shopping cart while you are shopping.43