Expert Tips To Secure Your Home Over The Festive Season
“Whether or not you have a full security system installed, there are many actions that just about anyone can take to make their home more secure.”
Crime is a reality in South Africa which unfortunately sees an increase during the December holidays. Many of these crimes are opportunistic. The opportunity for house burglaries is greater when there is no one home. House robberies are also more likely to occur over the summer holidays when people tend to let their guard down and spend more time outside with their doors and windows open.
“Home security has a significant part to play in keeping us safe,” says Graeme Steen, Chief Operations Officer of Kandua.com. “Whether or not you have a full security system installed, there are many actions that just about anyone can take to make their home more secure.”
Steen shares his holiday checklist for home security:
Check that your alarm system works
An alarm system is one of the biggest deterrents for would-be burglars. The alarm should be installed and monitored by a professional. Ensure your system is working properly at this crucial time of year by having it tested and keep it in good working order with regular maintenance.
Beef up your perimeter security
When it comes to your perimeter, a solid deterrent is an electric fence. “Apart from an electric fence, it’s good to have another security layer in place – like exterior beams,” suggests Steen. “Exterior beams can pick up movement and activate an alarm system, warning you of an intrusion.”
Secure your gate
It is all good and well to have a gate securing your property, but a gate can be lifted off its rails. Your gate should have an anti-lift device while the gate motor should be secured with an anti-theft bracket.
Don’t leave a window of opportunity open
Windows is another weak spot and must be burglar-proof. “Robust burglar bars on all windows are essential, and there are options available that are more aesthetically pleasing,” says Steen.
Consider CCTV
A CCTV system recording permanently or one which records when movement is detected keeps track of all that happens in a home. Certain systems allow you to monitor these cameras from a smart device. This system must be checked regularly to ensure it is working 100%.
Keep the lights on
Lighting is an essential part of securing your home as burglars will be less likely to approach a well-lit area. Your exterior lighting need not be bright, but bright enough to expose potential burglars. “Use lights with motion sensors where possible,” advises Steen, and goes on to say, “lights inside the home can be fitted to timers to come on at night, giving the appearance that someone is home.”
When embarking on the task of making your home secure, Steen’s number one tip is to leave it to the pros. “Whether you’re installing a brand-new CCTV system, or merely making your exterior lighting more effective, find a pro with a proven track record. This is where Kandua.com comes in: we can connect you to a trusted, experienced home service professional near you at the click of a button,” he concludes.
