Safety against intruders

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 32975, 22 July 1972, Page 20

Safety against intruders

An inexpensive door bolt on a chain is a simple precaution which will ensure safety from intruders, said the Chief Superintendent of police in Christchurch (Mr G. Tait).

This and further advice was given by Mr Tait in reply to “Come Ori,” the writer of a letter to “The Press,” who said: “With all the current robberies and assaults on householders, could the police send out leaflets to all citizens on how to deal with this menace? For example, throw a rug over the intruder’s head or tell him the money is in the wardrobe, then push him in and lock the door, etc. Also, a regular notice in daily papers could give similar advice and even act as a de-

terent to would-be burglars. It is time we fought back.”

Other points in reply made by Chief Superintendent Tait are: Ensure that your house is secure at night. Do not open the door unless you are sure it is someone you know. If the intruder is in the house, do not show fear. If the hour is reasonable, pretend you are expecting a visitor. Creating a lot of noise to attract the attention of neighbours may be useful. “Of course, there are al-

ways those who believe that the persons who do this sort of thing are in need of help rather than punishment,” Mr Tait said. “So acting under this theory, you could offer them tea and cake and offer to discuss their problems." Mr Tait said that one should make sure that the offender can be identified at a later date, should he be apprehended. “Finally, do not keep large sums of money in your house, and do not brag indiscriminately about any valuables you may have there,” he said.