Festive Season Safety and Security Tips
Statistics clearly show that criminal activity increases during the holiday season and it is therefore imperative for homeowners to take the right precautions and not let their guard down. We tend to ease up on our safety measures when we’re in holiday mode, but the devil is in the detail and sometimes it’s being diligent with the small things that makes the biggest difference. Here are a few practical tips that you can keep in mind during the festive season.
Make sure that your holiday decorations and displays do not obstruct your security systems. Watch out specifically for those that may obstruct video cameras or set off motion sensors.
Spectacular thunderstorms during the summer months can wreak havoc on alarm systems. Regularly check your systems in case of lightning damage.
Homeowners who have house insurance should also consider that in the event of a burglary, their insurance company will, in all likelihood, question whether they have properly maintained their alarm.
Sliding doors can be secured simply by placing a piece of timber cut to size in the sliding rail. This is to ensure that sliding doors cannot be lifted vertically.
Do not leave ladders, spades or tools outside, as they can be used to break into your house.
Advise your security company if you are going away and ensure that you supply all the necessary information regarding nearby emergency contacts, in case of an emergency.
Clear signage indicating that you have security also helps to discourage Burglars.
Have good exterior lighting, preferably on a timer.
Full fencing and sturdy gates are a good deterrent.
Be smart about seasonal employees. If you hire new staff just for the holidays, make certain that they only have access into the areas where they need to gain entry and only during the hours that you wish them to have access.
While on holiday, don’t assume that the place you’re staying in is crime-free. Always continue to be aware and vigilant, as you would at home.
The festive season should be a time of relaxation and giving but let's ensure that we are not giving our belongings to criminals on a golden platter.
People tend to forget that an alarm system, like a car, has parts that age and wear out and therefore should be serviced regularly. Test your alarm system at least two weeks prior to vacation to ensure faulty systems are reported to our technical team. Ideally test alarm systems between 09:00 - 15:00 or after 21:00, please contact our control room prior to testing at 011 362-4499.