Winter Watch: Temperatures drop, crime rises, what to do about it?

As temperatures dip in New Zealand, property crime rates rise. While many of us are looking forward to school holidays and winter breaks over the coming months, it’s important to ensure your property is protected while you’re away. Not just something for the summer season, home burglaries occur year-round, and homes are particularly vulnerable during these peak holiday periods.

Recent crime statistics from New Zealand Police (May 2023 to April 2024) show a noticeable increase in property crimes compared to last year, with a rise of 6,148 more incidents in Auckland alone. This trend is consistent nationwide, with occurrences of burglary and theft increasing across the country.

While home alarms and personal surveillance cameras are a great first step, the critical element is response and the ability to have “eyes on” the property or a physical presence as soon as suspicious activity is detected. So, before you pack up the car for a trip to the mountain or book that tropical getaway, make sure you’ve downloaded First Security’s Responda app.

Why Choose FIRST Security's Responda App?

1. Active Deterrence and Prevention: Security officers play a crucial role in actively deterring and preventing crimes. With the Responda app, you can instantly access their services from your smartphone, enabling you to promptly address any suspicious activity. Moreover, their mere presence can significantly deter and disrupt criminal activity at your property.
2. Rapid Response: While security technologies, such as alarms and security cameras, can help in detecting threats, effective response and management often necessitate human intervention. The Responda app allows you to effortlessly order a FIRST Security patrol to check on your home or business. With New Zealand’s largest response fleet of trained and certified mobile security officers, they can be there first.
3. Real-Time Monitoring and Reporting: FIRST Security officers are not only a physical presence but also keen observers who actively monitor their surroundings. Their vigilance and ability to detect unusual activities, potential security breaches, or safety hazards can prevent incidents from escalating. Thanks to the Responda app, you will also receive real-time notifications on the security officer's response, providing reassurance that your property or business is being looked after. They maintain meticulous records and provide detailed incident reports, aiding with insurance claims.
4. Crisis Management: In high-stress situations, de-escalation techniques are essential to prevent conflicts from spiralling out of control. FIRST Security officers are trained in conflict resolution and crisis management, allowing them to defuse tense situations peacefully where it is safe to do so. If an officer discovers an intruder on your property and the situation appears to be hostile, in accordance with our procedures, the Police will be called to attend. The security officer onsite can only assist where safe to do so, for example by waiting onsite for the Police to secure access.
5. Reporting and Intel: Beyond their security duties, FIRST Security officers will share an ‘Attendance Report’ via the Responda app. This report will include a brief description of the officer’s findings as well as photos if relevant to show the property status or any damage to the property. By promptly reporting and addressing maintenance issues like broken doors, faulty lights, or structural vulnerabilities, our officers contribute to risk mitigation and prevent further loss.

About FIRST Security

FIRST Security is one of New Zealand's leading security companies, offering comprehensive security solutions across the country. Established to provide top-tier security services, FIRST Security has built a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and innovation in security management.

Download Responda Today

Responda is available now for free download, with no contracts or monthly fees, and is available across New Zealand. Ensure your home is protected this winter and that your home doesn’t make the crime statistics this year.

For more information and to download the app, visit Responda.

Stats reference: New Zealand Police Crime Snapshot