Over the past month in an effort to increase visibility and reduce crime, Fidelity ADT have stepped up proactive suburb patrols in the Johannesburg area and have been carrying out ad hoc security patrols.
Open gates have been identified as a high security risk.
Charnel Hattingh, national marketing and communications manager for Fidelity ADT, said it is concerning to see the number of gates which are left open, particularly in the morning when people go to work.
“For opportunistic criminals open gates are an invitation to enter,” she said.
Hattingh said in just two weeks there were 19 open gates.
Residents were alerted and made aware of the problem.
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It is important that people wait for their gates to close before they leave as gates and fencing are really the first point of defence in perimeter security.
“Ideally homeowners need to make sure that their gate opens and closes as quickly as possible.
“This means less time sitting in your driveway or the road where you are a vulnerable target to hijackers.
“Also ensure that the motor has a locked box covering it to stop any attempts at tampering,” she said.
If possible Hattingh recommended residents reverse into their driveways/garages/gates as this allows a better view of the surroundings when entering and leaving their homes.
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