Security tips during power failures

Residents are easy targets during extended power outages such as the one currently being experienced by residents of Edenvale.

Home security systems typically only have a battery life of between eight and 12 hours.

How to ensure your home is safe during power failures:

• Obtain an additional battery which can be attached to your alarm. This will ensure that there is extra battery backup time.
• Install battery operated lights at strategic points in your home. These can be connected to the main electricity supply and automatically switch on during a power failure. These lights are particularly handy in the evenings and are safer than candles.
• Keep a torch in your car should you arrive home in the dark and need to open your perimeter security gate manually.
• If you have a pedestrian gate, make sure you have the gate key in your car. Ensure a spare key is kept in all your motor vehicles.
• Be vigilant at all times, especially at night and whenever there is a power outage in your area.
• Ensure that you have your security provider’s numbers programmed into your cell phone
• When you leave your home, ensure that all doors and windows are closed and locked.
• Do not leave gardening equipment lying around outside. Criminals use these to pry open doors and windows.
• Keep your sector vehicle numbers close. If you feel unsure of a situation contact the SAPS immediately.

Information obtained from the Edenvale SAPS