Load-shedding creating a nightmare for security
Load-shedding is becoming a logistical nightmare for security companies in the city.
The crime rate has not increased or decreased in this time period so far, but according to Hi-Tech Security regional operations manager, Callum MacPherson, with the current stage 4 load-shedding they are moving into a difficult time security-wise in the city.
“Some areas are receiving more than six hours a day without power. This has an effect on the alarm backup batteries.”
He said the number of false signals caused by battery failure has also impacted security as call volumes keep rising with every passing day.
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“I have implemented crisis management to attempt keeping the community safe. Extra units have been deployed as well as extra control personnel to help deal with this.”
He said it is very important that if your alarm starts sending false signals when power goes off or comes back on to replace your battery, as it means it will imminently fail. “Once the battery fails, your security is in jeopardy.
“Also adding to this, I have a great team and many members volunteered and still volunteer to help out over critical load shedding times. With a team that genuinely cares about our clients and community we will make a difference.”
He added that a team dedicated to the replacement of backup batteries has been put together as they are concerned that normal telecommunication could also be impacted by the loss of power.
ACS Security’s John Meintjies said the logistical part of load-shedding has also been a nightmare for them. “When we get an alarm or panic button going off, our vehicle has to rush to the scene only to find they are stuck in traffic as all the traffic, lights are off.”
J&M Security’s Hendrick Botha said their biggest worry is that they have to treat every alarm that goes off as an emergency. “It has not happened yet, but our fear is that we are responding to a false alarm set off by load-shedding when a real emergency is happening somewhere else.”
MacPherson added that it was imperative that if your alarm starts sending false signals due to power outages that you contact your security company immediately.
He concluded that should the situation worsen regarding the power situation, their emergency contingency plans are already in place and Hi-Tech Security would be operational regardless. “I advise the public that, even if it is unlikely, to prepare themselves and to be as self-reliant as
possible.”
