Shorter days with less daylight have arrived, and while our focus is on getting cosy indoors as we pack the braais and deck chairs away, be sure to make home security a priority too.
Fidelity ADT offered the following top 10 security checks for the chilly months ahead:
1. Ideally, your security provider should have access to your property in the event of an emergency. If you don’t have an access arrangement in place, such as a lock box or digipad, speak to your security provider about what options are available.
2. Test your alarm, panic buttons and outdoor security systems at least once a month. If you’re going away during the July/ August school holidays, test your alarm well in advance of your departure so that a technical service call can be arranged if necessary.
3. Test the battery life of your alarm system regularly too, so that you are not left vulnerable during a power outage.
4. Cut back any bushes or trees that may offer easy access over walls or gates to your property or provide places for criminals to hide.
5. Get to know your neighbours and your neighbourhood. This way you will be able to tell if something or someone doesn’t belong.
6. With it getting darker earlier and lighter later in the mornings, be aware of your surroundings when arriving at or leaving home. If you think you’re being followed or notice suspicious people near your property, drive to the nearest public place and contact your security provider or the police.
7. Double check that you have locked and secured all windows and doors before leaving home.
8. Make sure that your children and domestic staff know what to do and who to contact in an emergency. They must know how to use the alarm system and panic buttons. Store emergency numbers on speed-dial and next to a landline.
9. If you have open fires in your home, make sure you have the necessary fire protection systems in place. Install smoke detectors and have serviced fire extinguishers in strategic areas around the house.
10. Arm your alarm whenever you leave home, and when you go to bed.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
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