Check your home security before leaving for holiday
While security systems help automate the process of keeping your possessions and family safe, they cannot do all the work on their own.
MUCH like your vehicle protection, one’s home security system performs a vital function in keeping your family and possession safe.
But why do many homeowners fail to ensure their home security system is up to the task while they’re away?
Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group, says one should not leave one’s home security checks to the night before leaving on holiday.
Regular maintenance can help to avoid last-minute panic and getting a technician out to fix a faulty piece of equipment.
Homeowners must conduct regular tests and required maintenance. This includes security cameras, the alarm panel and battery, panic buttons, electric fences, motion sensors, smoke alarms, intercom systems and outdoor beams.
‘Your security system is only as effective as its weakest component. If you have invested in a home security system, you must ensure it is always functioning properly. One of the biggest benefits of having a quality security system is peace of mind, so you need to know it will not let you down when you need it most,’ said Hattingh.
While security systems help automate the process of keeping your possessions and family safe, they cannot do all the work on their own.
Fidelity services suggests testing all components weekly, monthly and well in advance of going on holiday.
‘Testing should be done even more regularly after severe storms or power outages. Home improvements or repair work around the house can also affect your security systems without you realising it, so it is always a good idea to do the necessary checks after the project is complete,’ she said
Top 6 tips for pre-holiday security system testing:
1. Put your alarm panel (your system’s nerve centre) on test with your security company.
2. Check your perimeter for vulnerabilities, such as broken electric fencing, foliage, worn locks on gates or sensors not working on doors and windows.
3. Check all outside lights. Wind can shift lights and interfere with their effectiveness.
4. If someone is going to be staying in the house while you are away, ensure your remote and fixed panic buttons are working and that person knows what to do in an emergency.
5. Ensure cameras are in the right position and recording as they should.
6. Inform your security provider if you are unsure about anything or feel your security could be compromised due to a faulty system.
‘Your alarm activation is our call to action to ensure you receive the right help when you need it most. Therefore, it is important to know your security systems are functioning properly, especially when you are away from home,’ said Hattingh.
