Criminals change their patterns and behaviours all the time.
For this reason, homeowners need to keep up with trends and better ways to secure their homes, says Charnel Hattingh, head of marketing and communications at the security solutions provider Fidelity ADT.
“The first principle of better home security is to make your home less of a target; make it as hard as possible for criminals to successfully carry out their plans on your property,” she says.
“This means looking at things like installing sensor lighting, an electric fence, outdoor beams and an alarm that are connected to a reputable armed response company.
“The best home security solution is an integrated one that can be phased in over time – one which creates a single-seat control environment.”
According to Hattingh, home security can be upped by following a few simple principles.
- Remove temptation. Remove all valuables from sight so nothing is visible through a window. Park vehicles in a locked garage, and keep garage doors closed at all times.
- Reduce the means. Do not let your stepladder be the means by which criminals get onto your balcony. Lock tools and garden equipment away and clear any bricks or heaps of sand from your perimeter. Never leave your wheelie bin out overnight. Criminals not only use these to climb into your property, but also to transport stolen goods.
- Watch out for each other. Form a neighbourhood watch for your suburb or a street watch with your neighbours. Ensure everyone is on a welll-managed security WhatsApp group where tips, trends and incidents can be shared. Get to know your neighbours so that they can be your eyes and ears when you go on holiday.
- Keep your neighbourhood clean. Ensure your property and the suburb in general looks cared for. Illegal dumping or structures, acts of vandalism, vagrants and broken street lights should be reported and dealt with through the relevant authorities. A cleaner suburb is a safer suburb. Partner with your security company or ward councillor to undertake a neighbourhood clean-up where necessary.
“The golden rule is to ensure you reduce the chance of criminals targeting your house and suburb and increase the chances of them being caught if they try.”
