Security contractors know what it takes to improve the safety of your home. While it is always good to have an armed response company watching your back, you can help them and yourself by doing a handful of important but simple updates around your home. Here are 5 of the most important home security measures.
1. Install detection beams and CCTV
While it is worthwhile to install an alarm system that covers your homeâs entrances and weak spots comprehensively, a major study of household robberies, carried out by UNISAâs School of Criminal Justice, shows that alarm systems on their own donât constitute much of a deterrent. Focus instead on the installation of detection beams throughout your yard and keep these activated even when the whole family is at home. The best defence is a layered system, with detection and deterrent measures at the perimeter, in the yard, at the entrances to the house, as well as inside the house. However, the study indicates that the fence and detection beams, as well as security cameras, are most likely to deter criminals.
2. Add extra barriers
Burglar bars on your windows, and security gates on all your doors are still among the most effective crime deterrents. As long as they are of high quality and have been installed well, they simply make breaking into your home too much trouble for criminals, who would rather choose a quick and easy target. Bar all entrances â there is no point leaving one unprotected as any home security system is only as strong as its weakest link.
3. Bolster your wall or fence
Your perimeter fence or wall is your first line of defence, so you should pay particular attention to making it as robust as possible. Itâs best to catch or stop criminals before they gain entry to your property. Check once a year to make sure that the structure is still sound and stable and install an electric fence that is linked to your security companyâs control centre.
4. Add timers to your lights and TV
Sometimes security is a matter of perception. Burglars would rather target an empty home or one in which everyone is sound asleep. If they see or hear signs of activity, they are more likely to move on. Install timers on your lights and the plug points for your TV set(s). This will switch these appliances on at particular times of the day and night (try to vary the times if you can) and give the impression that someone is at home and awake.
5. Get the help of manâs best friend
Dogs are an excellent deterrent and/or alarm system. If you donât have a dog, itâs worth considering getting one if you are prepared to take on the responsibility. Remember though that criminals or more than willing to harm dogs in order to get access to your property, so itâs best to keep them indoors at night. Even there, a well-trained dog will hear and/or sniff out possible intrusions and alert you immediately. The barking of a large dog is often enough to scare off intruders.
RSS Security is a team of trusted security contractors in Johannesburg, offering commercial security services, armed response and more. Contact us for more information.