Safety tips for load-shedding

Safety and security are some of the biggest concerns residents have when load-shedding is implemented.

There are a number of steps residents can take to ensure they are safe during times of load-shedding.

• Residents are advised to make sure house alarm batteries are regularly inspected by their relevant security companies. During load-shedding, the battery life of alarms is drastically reduced. While regular inspection intervals are set at every 12 months, residents should make sure they have their alarm batteries checked every six months during times of load-shedding.

• Households which make use of electric fences should always make sure that the fences are connected to a back-up battery. This will ensure that during times of extended load-shedding your home fencing remains active.

• Generators should never be run inside a home. The toxic fumes created by the generator can cause serious harm or even be fatal.

• When arriving at or leaving your house, always make sure that your property is secure.

Also read: Get your kitchen load-shedding ready

• Lock all doors and windows tightly.

• Residents who arrive home in the evenings should make sure they are alert at all times. Streets surrounding your home could be dark and property lighting may not be optimal.

• When approaching your home, make sure you have your car lights on bright.

• Do not park in front of your property for extended times. If you feel that you or your family may be at risk when arriving home at night, rather drive to the nearest police station.

• It is always a good idea to have emergency numbers on hand during load-shedding. Print out emergency numbers and place them on the fridge near a rechargeable light source.

• Keep emergency numbers stored on at least two cell phones in your household.

• Residents who are at home during load-shedding are advised to make sure that their security gates are securely locked at all times.

• Automated gates should also be closed and secured.

• Make sure that you have easy access to automated gate keys in case the batteries on these devices run flat.

• Never place ignitable light sources in reach of children or animals.

• Install battery-operated lights in strategic places in your homes.