Tips for staying safe this school holiday
The September school holidays are almost upon us, as well as Heritage Day. Here are some safety tips …
As South Africans look forward to the public holiday on September 24 this Heritage Month and the beginning of the school holidays from September 20, it’s important to keep safety top of mind, cautioned security company Fidelity ADT.
Many opportunistic criminals are looking to target vulnerable homes for easy pickings.
Group head of marketing and communications for Fidelity ADT Charnel Hattingh said residents should remain vigilant to avoid becoming an easy target.
“Residents are reminded to always remember to activate outside beams as these act as an early warning signal. Opportunistic crime is exactly what the name implies – opportunistic. If your perimeter is not secure criminals will take advantage and attempt to steal anything left visibly. Laptops on counters and even bicycles in open garages become easy pickings,” she said.
Hattingh added suspects are quick getting in and out within minutes.
“If they can’t get into your house or business, they take what they can from your property or your parked cars.”
She offered the following safety tips:
• Ensure that perimeter doors are fitted with adequate locks
• Fit suitable “spacers”, locks or bolts to all sliding doors to prevent them from being lifted off their tracks (the most common method used by burglars on sliding doors and windows)
• Ensure all windows are fitted with adequate locks or burglar bars that cover all glass
• Ensure that all duplicate keys are locked away if not in use. Do not leave indoors or make unnecessary copies
• Keep the garage and tool shed locked when not in use. Would-be intruders should not have access to any item that can be used as a weapon or burglary tool
• Install outside lights that can be remotely controlled from inside the house. Consider installing lighting outside which is activated by a motion detector
• Reduce all heavy foliage near your perimeter wall and gate to reduce the possibility of those spots being used as hiding places
She also gave the following additional security tips:
• Advise your security company if you are going away and ensure that you supply all the necessary information regarding key holders, in case of an emergency
• Inform your neighbours and neighbourhood watch of your holiday plans so that they can keep an eye on your property
• Stop all newspaper and other deliveries (if applicable) and have someone collect all your post. A bulging post box is a dead giveaway that you’re not home
• If hiring a house sitter, ensure that you teach them how to use your alarm correctly
• Double check that you have locked and secured all windows and doors before leaving home
• 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
“Holidays should be fun and stress-free; we all need to recharge our batteries from time to time. Let’s be extra vigilant these school holidays and make sure everyone stays safe,” concluded Hattingh.
