House break-ins are one of the most common criminal offences reported to police.

And while the number of reported house burglaries in Queensland has increased over the past decade, research suggests that most could have been prevented.

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) became Neighbourhood Watch’s (NHW) major sponsor on July 1, with the two organisations now working together to further promote community safety.

NHW state coordinator Sergeant Steve Batterham says most house break-ins appear to be crimes of opportunity, and there are a number of preventative steps people can take to make their home as secure as possible.

Some NHW crime prevention tips include:

• Funeral and wedding notices containing an address can tell a potential offender when to strike. If attending such events, have a friend stay over or ask a neighbour to watch your house.

• If you hear an intruder in your home, do not risk injury. Concentrate on raising the alarm and staying safe. If you are outside and see signs of a break-in, do not enter. The intruder may still be present. Go to a neighbour's house, call the police and wait there until they arrive.

• The external doors of your house should be of solid-core construction and preferably fitted with deadlocks.

• Safety hinges will prevent the door being pulled from its hinges. If a door opens outwards, hinge bolts should be fitted.

• The inactive leaf of a set of double doors (French doors) should be fitted with concealed lever push-bolts or, preferably, key-operated locks. The other leaf can be fitted with a deadlock/deadbolt and used as a normal door.

The REIQ is encouraging members to get actively involved in local NHW programs around the state.

Over the next three years, we will assist in NHW’s vital role of ensuring that Queensland is a safer place to live so this highly regarded crime prevention program continues to go from strength to strength.