Police are advising residents in Doreen to make sure their homes are properly secured against burglary. According to the RACV 1 in 36 Doreen homes have been burgled in the past year, while the average burglary rate for Victoria is 1 in 73.

Watsonia, Bundoora, Yarrambat and Kinglake also have higher burglary rates – 1 in 72 in Watsonia and 1 in 59 homes in Bundoora being burgled.

Police also report that in 50% of reported burglaries, thieves had entered through open or unlocked doors/windows. Check out the full story in this week’s Leader.

With holidays fast approaching, now is the time to make your home secure before going on holidays or even just away for a few days.

Use our checklist to see whether your home is as secure as it should be.