FOLLOWING an increase in robberies in the upper Highway area, home-owners are urged to keep safety and security their priorities.
Ivan Govender, district manager of ADT Security KwaZulu-Natal, said a home invasion is when criminals access a house while the occupants are indoors.
“Intruders see these kinds of crimes as a quick and easy way to gain access. There are measures that can be implemented to reduce the risk of being targeted by home invaders.”
He said the first step is to start on the outside. “People should trim trees and shrubs so that they cannot be used as hiding places.
“Also ensure that the yard, pathways and dark corners are well-lit. Regularly check burglar bars and security gates for rust or weak spots that would allow them to be easily broken or forced open.
If the premises is surrounded by high walls, Govender suggests that a videophone be installed at the gate so that you can view all visitors. “This gives the home-owner control over who is allowed to come onto the property. Ensure that pedestrian and driveway gates are always closed and locked.
“If visitors can walk right up to the door, consider a peephole to be able to see who is on the other side before the door is opened,” explained Govender.
He said that the first step in the implementation of safety measures from the inside is to make sure that everyone in the house knows what the rules are and make them a part of their daily routine.
“Be sure that the household members – including domestic staff – know when and how to use the alarm system and panic buttons (if these are installed).
“They must also know who to call in an emergency; make a list of contact numbers and put them up near the telephone. If they have not been informed, the door must not be opened to any delivery people or service providers, even if they insist that they have an appointment.
According to Govender, it is of utmost importance that the alarm system is armed overnight or when anyone is home alone. “If possible, lock inter-leading doors to rooms that are not used overnight and keep a cellphone at the bedside in case of an emergency.”
If in the unfortunate event that a criminal is able to force their way into the home, Govender advises people to stay as calm as possible and to try to evaluate the situation.
He added that it is important to co-operate and hand over any valuables the intruders demand, especially if there is no way to escape or raise the alarm.
“Try to observe as much as possible about what the intruder is wearing and the manner in which they speak or behave. When they leave, do not follow them but close and lock the doors behind them and contact the police or your security company immediately.
“Membership to the local neighbourhood watch adds another layer of security.
“The safety of the community is everyone’s business and it is vital that residents get to know their neighbours to present a united front against crime,” concluded Govender.
