Tips to consider during load shedding

In light of the recent load shedding throughout the country, ADT Security has outlined important hints and tips that they encourage everyone to consider in the interests of maintaining security during this time:

•  Alarm batteries. If you receive a call from your security company advising that you have a low battery signal, please immediately contact their technical department.

Load shedding can dramatically reduce the lifespan of your alarm battery. Should your battery be older than one year, you should contact your security provider to make the necessary arrangements to either replace or check the battery. The new gel batteries have an average battery life of between six and eight hours.

•  Electric fencing. To ensure that your electric fencing continues to function during load shedding, your electric fence battery should have a back-up battery.
•  Generators. If you are using a generator, never operate it anywhere inside your home, including the garage or any confined area, as it produces carbon monoxide which can be fatal. A generator should be kept at least three metres from the home, with its exhaust pointing away from the house. It should always be installed by an electrician to evaluate the house’s electrical system for proper grounding and polarity and to ensure extension cords are installed correctly.
•  Arriving or leaving home. Ensure that you are especially alert when arriving or leaving your home in the evenings, as the street lights and your outside lighting will not be functioning during the load shedding process.
•  At home. Ensure that all your automated gates and doors are secured, and that all other gates and doors are locked.

Clients must also be aware that load shedding can have an impact on fire systems and fire control systems. With candles, gas and other lighting devices being used more often, these can result in an increased fire hazard and home fire extinguishers should be on hand.