Holiday safety tips
Don't become a statistic this summer holiday. Check out these crime tips from Blue Security to help you and your family stay safe.
DURBAN’S hot summer holidays marked by bright skies, braaivleis and long, cool sundowners need not be dampened by crime if you take thought to be security conscious while putting up your feet for that well deserved break.
Blue Security managing director Darryn le Grange offered the following security tips for house parties and holidays that could save a life and help to prevent your home from becoming the next target.
DO be vigilant. Planning a braai or dinner party may mean you have your hands full but this is not the time to let down your guard. Be very vigilant and check for suspicious vehicles or individuals in the street before opening the gate for visitors arriving for a party as robbers and hijackers often strike at this vulnerable time when dogs may also be locked away.
DO remember. Check that gates and doors have been locked once all your visitors have arrived. The last guest in may not be as security conscious, as you would like.
DO say goodbye inside. When guests are arriving or leaving your home never stand in the driveway with the gates open and have a long ‘goodbye’ chat. Finish your conversation and say your goodbyes indoors and then open up for your guests and let them leave swiftly.
DO ask for help. If you are going away ask a neighbour to collect the post and newspaper as nothing shouts ‘empty house’ louder than a pile of uncollected post.
DO leave a light on. Check that all the outdoor lights are working and install a timer or ask a neighbour to switch the lights on at night and off during the day if you are going away. Even better, ask a friend or family member to housesit or hire a professional house sitter. Criminals hate being in the spotlight.
DO some gardening. Overgrown bushes are a great hiding place for burglars so trim these back, especially around the house, on the verge and near the driveway.
DO make sure your children have access to a remote panic button or a Res-Q-Me personal panic bracelet. The bracelet works within a 50 meter radius of your home alarm and with just two clicks to the bracelet your security company will be notified that there is an emergency.
DO install an inexpensive anti “gate-crashing” sensor on your driveway gate that will sound the alarm if intruders attempt to break the gate down while you are away.
