Business, From our experts

November 27, 2025

Grant’s Golden Rules for Residential Security

Sectrol Security has been Ballarat family owned for almost 50 years. Over the last five decades, Sectrol has supported the dynamic growth of Ballarat by providing security solutions designed to meet the changing needs of homeowners and businesses.

Grant Belsar the owner of Sectrol Security was recently asked to provide his “Golden Rules” for residential security. “First and foremost,” said Grant, “best practice in residential security is built around practical thinking.”

“Residential security doesn’t just include the family home” says Grant, “it includes all the assets kept in and around your home such as your car, work vehicle, caravan, kids’ bikes etc.”

“If you cannot store these things in a secure garage, ask yourself a few simple questions – have I locked my car? Are my work tools secure? Have I left anything visible in the vehicle including my PC, wallet, mobile phone, work keys?”. Get into the practice of completing this simple checklist each day/night.

In terms of residential security systems, there are a wide variety of products available on the market from entry-level off-the-shelf camera systems to premium monitored electronic/CCTV security.

Premium electronic security can also be supported by 24/7 security monitoring and rapid alarm response services. Grant notes that “unlike off-the-shelf security solutions, monitored security provides the ultimate peace of mind, especially when you are away from your home/premises”.

“Which leads me to the upcoming holidays season” says Grant. It’s important to let your trusted neighbours or your monitored security company know when you will be away and who to call if you have an alternative contact. Adopting a practical approach is the best way to create peace of mind when it comes to residential security!”.

The Belsar family and Sectrol wishes everyone a safe and happy holidays season.

Top 3 Crime Prevention Tips with Neighbourhood Watch

 

Staying safe starts with a few simple habits. Neighbourhood Watch encourages everyone to take small steps that make a big difference – at home, online, and in your neighbourhood.

  1. Secure your home and vehicle
  • Always lock your doors, windows and gates – even when you’re home.
  • Lock your vehicle every time you leave it.
  • Park off the street if you can.
  • Use one-way screws on number plates to stop thieves removing them.
  • Use good-quality locks and fit sensor lights.
  • Keep gardens tidy and valuables out of sight.
  • Take the How Safe Is My Place and How Safe is My Vehicle  quizzes on the Neighbourhood Watch Victoria website to check how secure your home and car are.

 

  1. Stay safe online: avoid scams and phishing attempts
  • Don’t click on links in unexpected emails or text messages.
  • Go to the website or service in your usual way – type the address or use your saved link.
  • Be careful with your personal information and watch for scams.
  1. Know your neighbours: a connected neighbourhood is a safer one – neighbours who know each other can quickly spot unusual activity, share information, and help keep everyone secure.
  • Say hello and get to know the people who live nearby.
  • Look out for each other and share information about safety.
  • If you see something unusual or suspicious, report it to police.

Find out more

For more crime prevention tips, safety quizzes or to request a Neighbourhood Watch sticker, visit the Neighbourhood Watch Victoria websitenhw.com.au

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