With the right security system in place you can secure your home against intruders and keep your prized possessions safe.
When considering the security of your home you need to be aware of the layers of security around your home including; fencing, gates, burglar bars, lighting, alarm system and other possible devises. Once you look at these from the outside you will be able to understand your security from the burglar’s point of view.
Homes without monitored security systems are about three times more likely to be broken into than those with systems.
Fencing
A solid brick wall ensures complete privacy by preventing anyone from seeing into your property, but it also means that no-one will be able to see if something suspect is going on inside. Therefore, a steel fence that people can look through is a much safer option. The ideal height for a fence is 2.1m. It is often difficult to find a compromise between something that looks attractive and also makes you feel secure, an option is to combine steel and brick, although you should beware of creating a really expensive stepladder for burglars, the brick wall under the steel fence should not be higher than 30-40cm. An electric fence is an effective deterrent. As soon as the intruder touches the fence it should trigger an alarm and armed response.
Motorised Gates and Garage Doors
Motorised gates and garage doors are a safer option as you don’t need to get out of the safety of your car to open and close them. However, be aware that criminals can slip in behind you, so make sure that your gate and garage doors are on a quicker setting that will not be open for longer than is absolutely necessary.
Burglar Bars
Burglar bars that are fitted on the inside of the window are safer than those that are fitted on the outside. Burglar bars should be built into the wall or secured with one-way screws, which can’t be removed. If not, then saw or file off the heads of the normal screws or fill them with epoxy filler so that the intruder can’t unscrew or remove them in order to gain access. To make unattractive burglar bars more appealing rather paint the burglar bars the same colour as the walls instead of the traditional grey, green or black. This will make the burglar bars far less noticeable.
Security Gates
Security gates and doors make it more difficult for an intruder to gain access to your home and increase the likelihood of the criminal being caught. Security gates that are installed in front of an ordinary door are the most popular choice in SA. Although these gates tend to look fairly similar, there are subtle variations in the locks and construction. Wooden doors that are reinforced internally with a steel frame are available. These doors don’t alter the appearance of your home and eliminate the need for a separate security gate.
Security Glass
You can decrease the likelihood of break-ins with security glass. Fit a security film to the inside of the glass that can withstand several heavy blows. The security film works in the same way as the film added to car windows to deter smash-and-grabbers.
Security Lighting
The driveway and entrance to your home should be well lit. Mount the light fittings high up on the walls so that intruders can’t easily get to them. Install a motion sensor to your regular lighting that triggers the light when someone walks past.
Cameras
Security cameras can be installed and connected to your TV or computer and can be recorded. Four security cameras are sufficient for an average three bedroom house. If you have an ADSL connection at home you can monitor your property via the internet.
Intercoms
Having an intercom at your outside gate means that you don’t have to open the front door to see who is there. The greatest advantage is that you don’t have to react at all if you don’t want to deal with whoever is at the gate.
Your guard dog is still one of the best ways to deter an intruder.
The Security Industry Alliance (SIA) has produced an "Educational Guide to Residential Security", for consumers at www.securityalliance.co.za.
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