Home security is as important as ever, with little positive change in South Africa’s crime statistics. A 2017 report presented by the SAPS showed that KZN had a 1.7% increase in violent crime in the past year. However, there are things homeowners can do to protect themselves more effectively! Read on to find out what you can do to avoid being the victim of crime in your home…
1. Avoid Crimes of Opportunity
Don’t leave cars parked in the driveway while you’re not home if you can avoid it. If you have builders or service people you are not familiar with on your property, make sure your valuables are not left in plain sight where someone may be tempted to take them.
2. Deter Criminals with Window Bars
Window bars are crucial deterrents for your home. Unfortunately, criminals are getting more sophisticated and old-fashioned window bars are easily bent or removed by home invaders. The metal window bars you install should be made with hardened aluminium which is durable and corrosion-resistant. It should also be installed with flush fittings to make using brute force to remove them near impossible.
3. Security Signs Proven to Put-Off Burglars
Let criminals know your home is protected by a security group or has been fitted with security systems and products. Many security companies who outfit your home will offer to put up a company sign on your perimeter wall which tells passersby that your home is protected. A Rutgers University study showed that homes which advertise that they are protected by professional security products and systems are less likely to be targeted by criminals.
4. Secure Your Electric Gates
Electric gates are a smart option; they reduce your vulnerability as you don’t have to get out of your car to open the gate, which can leave you open to attack. However, they are not fool-proof! Criminals can lift the gates off the rail just enough to create a gap to fit through. Padlock your gate whenever you go out or close-up for the night.
5. Trellis Gates Are a Smart Investment
We can never know when our homes may be targeted by criminals. Whilst we may feel safe enough to leave doors open while we’re enjoying time outside during the day, or relaxing in the evening, criminals are unpredictable, and you may be caught off guard at any time. Trellis gates with a slam-lock system can avert dangerous situations. Note that security gates should be made with steel roller bearings which won’t stick when you shut your gate in an emergency.
6. Don’t Leave Yourself Vulnerable to Attacks
You need to do everything possible to make it more trouble than it’s worth for a criminal to rob your home. A smart way to make home invasion hard for criminals is to get rid of hiding spots. Criminals use the element of surprise to ambush you, giving your little or no time take counter measures to protect yourself. Trees and shrubbery outside your home are pretty, but provide perfect places for criminals to hide and attack you from. It’s best to cut them back or get rid of them altogether.
7. New Security Products: Clear Window Bars
Most security measures we implement in our homes can look ugly and feel oppressive, especially metal window bars! We do tend to get used to them, but the good news is that security service providers are introducing new products all the time. One new product worth having a look at is clear window bars. These are made from polycarbonate, a super strong material, which makes these bars just as effective as ordinary metal window bars, but they won’t ruin your view!
Need home security products that work? Wonder Bars offers the latest in home security solutions. Contact us here for more information…
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