The festive season is upon us and 0ne important job to put on the to do list is to check your security and make sure all is in order.
“Criminals are gearing up for their busiest time of the year.,” said Theunis Kotze, ADT Inland Region general manager.
“Make checking your security system a priority so Santa is the only surprise visitor you get this year.”
He highly recommends doing a pre-holiday alarm check to make sure the system is working.
“If you pick up any issues book a technician now to come and check.
“It’s best not to wait until you are locking up the house to head off on holiday to do a check.
“At that point it may be difficult to get a technician straight away.
“Also, consider asking your security company to do a risk assessment of your property and make recommendations.
“There is a lot of value in having an expert eye advise you on where you may need to tighten up your security.”
He also highlighted the importance of making sure your security company can access your property in the event of an alarm activation or emergency.
“On many occasions we have been called out to a property and when we get there the residents are away on holiday, cannot be reached and there is no way to enter the premises,” said Kotze.
“A lock box is a great way to ensure your property can be inspected and kept secure while you are away.”
Kotze provided these handy tips to consider prior to leaving for your holiday:
- Ensure there are no gaps in your fence or unintentional points of access to your home which may need additional security.
- Connect outdoor lights to timers and motion sensors.
- Advise your security company of your holiday plans – should something happen while you are away, it is essential that they have the following updated information on your holiday form: all keyholder information and details of domestic staff or house sitters who may be staying on the property while you are away.
- Inform your neighbours and Neighbourhood Watch of your holiday plans so that they can keep an eye on your property while you are away.
- Ensure that all your outside locks are a minimum of four lever locks or double cylinder security locks. It is also a good idea to check that all these locks are in good working order.
- Make sure that all bushes or trees close to your doors and garage are trimmed, to avoid the possibility of intruders hiding behind them
- Before locking up, check all water outlets and electric sockets. Ensure that you have not left a key on the inside of an outer door that has glass panels or glass near the door lock.
- If you are going away for several weeks, consider asking someone to visit the property from time to time. Movement in and out of the house is a deterrent in itself.
“The festive season should be a time of relaxation,” added Kotze.
Also read:Â School holidays: Practise safety tips with your kids
Ways to protect yourself, and your children, in the event of a hijacking
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