As Christmas and summer holidays loom, it is time to think about how to keep homes secure, according to Wayne Deaner from Neighbourhood Watch.

Mr Deaner said one of the best ways to improve home security was as simple as getting to know the neighbours.

“Be vigilant about who is around your neighbourhood and introduce yourself to the neighbours and exchange phone numbers,” he said.

Mr Deaner said the hot weather could see a rise in opportunistic crimes.

“If you open windows, make sure they are secure and lock your doors,” he said.

“Don’t leave your car keys near the front door. Put them away.

“People can think about driveway security, better lighting or CCTV.

“But talk to your neighbours and get to know them. Think about creating a street security plan, talk about who is coming and going and if you see anything strange, report it to the police.

“Call the police on 131 444 or CrimeStoppers on 1300 333 000.”

Tim Lidden, from the Wagga VRA, has also pleaded for people using the Murrumbidgee River and other waterways to be careful.

“Please, be sensible in and near the water,” he said.

“There is lots of good advice around. Never mix alcohol and water and never go out by yourself without telling someone where you are going and when you will be back.

“Rivers are living things. They change all the time. You never know what hidden snags will be beneath the water. Don’t dive into unknown water.”

Mr Lidden said anyone who did find themselves caught in a current in the river should remember never to try to swim against it, but rather to swim with it and towards the bank.

A study conducted by Royal Life Saving Australian last summer showed that about 16 per cent of swimmers were affected by alcohol when swimming in Australian rivers.

The study was partly conducted in Wagga, with swimmers being voluntarily breathalysed.

The highest reading in Wagga was .215.

“Alcohol is known to increase your risk of drowning and that’s especially true at rivers around the country,” Royal Life Saving’s Amy Peden said.