The Elsburg SAPS urges residents to consider building high fences, with lockable gates, security gates with sturdy locks, as well as burglar proofing covering all windows as their first point of adding security in their homes.
“Along with these elements, residents can install razor wire, additional locking devices on doors, peepholes in the doors, safety chains to doors, an intercom system between the home and gate, front door or garage and the strengthening of doors to ensure minimal to no successful house robberies,” said Const Daphney Phooko, communications officer for the Elsburg police.
The following devices can also be used to beef up security in your home:
• An alarm system, preferably connected to an armed response company, can act as an effective deterrent.
• In the rural environment a siren/alarm on the roof that can be heard over a long distance and that can be activated by means of a switch/panic button in the house, is recommended.
• A few switches or panic buttons in different rooms of the house should preferably be installed.
• An alarm must also have the capability to warn the occupants of any intrusion into the house.
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Examples of alarm systems:
• Mechanical and or electrical (purchased types).
• Improvised systems.
• Threaded tins.
• Threaded pieces of iron.
• Gravel on window panes, pathways or around the home.
• Obstacles that can make a noise when moved.
Biological systems:
• Dogs.
• Geese.
• Ostriches.
Security lights:
• Security lights on the outside of the house improve the physical protection of a house, farm or smallholding.
• The lights must be directed away from the house and must allow the occupants to use the windows without being observed from outside.
• Be aware of possible shadows and blind spots.
Safety precautions:
• Ensure that all doors are locked at all times, and that windows are closed when you are not at home.
• Large dogs serve as a deterrent. At least one dog should be trained to sleep inside the house.
• If you leave your residence, inform your family/neighbours of your intended destination, time you expect to return and the route you will be driving, especially if you reside in a rural area.
• Ensure that tools, such as axes, spades, picks and ladders, that can be used in an attack are locked away when you do not use them.
• Vary your daily routine.
• Get into the habit of not immediately falling asleep after switching off the lights.
• Remain awake for a while.
• You should not be visible in the bedroom from the outside when you are asleep.
• Always keep a torch nearby at night and when you use it ensure you do not give away your position.
• If you are unsure about the security status of your home after returning from work or a visit, do not enter your home, contact your neighbour to assist you in securing your home.
• Identify relatively safe places of refuge.
• The fewer windows and doors these rooms have, the better.
• Involve employees as they are part of the family or team.
• Employees must be involved in maintaining security on an equal footing.
• Report suspicious behaviour and information to your nearest police station.
• Clear the areas around the gates of bushes and other hiding places.
• Take photographs of all employees. It could be to your advantage to identify them, if required.
• Remunerate your employees when useful information is provided that contribute to the prevention of crime.
• Do not employ casual workers without a reference.
• Keep copies of all your employees’ identity documents.
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Access and key control:
• Do not allow strangers on your premises or in your house without having properly identified the person, especially at night.
• Implement efficient key control measures.
• Identify keys by means of codes instead of indicating in writing on labels to which gate or door access can be gained.
• Never hide any keys in traditional places, such as in pot plants or under doormats.
• Keys in the keyhole on the inside of the front or back door should be turned to avoid easy removal.
• Never allow strangers to handle keys or look at key numbers.
• Change locks when keys are lost.
• Insert barring devices in door locks.
• Remove keys from doors when leaving.
“There should be two systems to call for alternative backup, a telephone, one that is preferably installed where it is easily accessible from anywhere in the house, and a cellphone.
“Inform your children not to give an indication that adult supervision is not available when they answer the phone,” Phooko said.
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