As the festive season approaches and plans are being made, have you factored in who will be keeping an eye on your elderly parents or grandparents during the festive season?
This is a question posed by Fidelity ADT Communications manager Charnel Hattingh who said criminals often preyed on older members of society because they were seen as vulnerable soft targets.
“And while their safety should be a priority year-round, it is particularly important to ensure safety measures are in place when family, careers and friends are away for the holidays.”
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Security is just as important for those senior citizens living in retirement villages and complexes as those in stand-alone homes.
“Break-ins are not isolated to stand-alone homes any longer and a thorough security check of their homes and surrounding premises ahead of the holiday makes sense.”
If there are any vulnerable areas they need to be addressed.
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“A thorough security check of their homes and surrounding premises ahead of the holiday makes sense. If there are any vulnerable areas these need to be addressed.
Besides checking the perimeter security such as walls and gates, and testing that the alarm system is working, it is important to check that the locks fitted on windows and doors are of a good quality.
“If you need to get an expert opinion get a security person to come and do an evaluation.”
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Hattingh said panic buttons were a must.
“Take the time to explain to your elderly friend or family member the importance of carrying the panic button on them at all times.
“Not only can they call for help if there is a security incident they can also raise the alarm if there is a medical emergency.
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“There should always be a list of important contact numbers near the telephone or emergency numbers on quick-dial on a cell phone so that no time is wasted in the event of an emergency.
“You may also want to consider informing your security company that your elderly person is alone so they are aware and could do a drive-by or stop-in to check that all is ok.”
She said the elderly should not open their doors to anyone until they verified who it was.
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“It is an unfortunate reality that the elderly are often victims of con-artists. They need to be suspicious of anyone who comes to the door with a story.
She said they should never freely give their personal details – including credit card details, identity or banking information.
“We need to be conscious of the fact that many elderly people do not go away for the holidays and will be at home alone. Let’s ensure their festive season is a crime-free one,” said Hattingh.
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