According to the 2012/2013 South African Police Service Crime Statistics, home robberies have increased by 3.6 percent over the last year.
According to the 2012/2013 South African Police Service Crime Statistics, home robberies have increased by 3.6 percent over the last year.
Christelle Fourie, Managing Director of MUA Insurance Acceptances, says as a result, it is important for homeowners to ensure they implement precautionary measures to protect themselves against this increasing crime.
She says there are a number of steps homeowners can take to not only better ensure the security of their possessions but their loved ones as well.
1. Implement detection methods
Installing exterior motion sensor lights and detection beams not only allows homeowners to remain alert to any activity and movement on the property, they also deter criminals from invading the property. It is also advisable to install exterior lighting which can be controlled remotely from the inside of the home.
2. Install CCTV
Close-circuit television (CCTV) is a huge deterrent for burglars. By having CCTV cameras running 24/7 burglars are less likely to attack for fear of being filmed, recognised and caught. It is also a good idea to have a camera installed at the front gate so that any visitors can be clearly viewed from the safety of the home.
3. Ensure that the alarm system is in working order
Alarms and armed response services are not only an important requirement of most home insurance policies but also assist to protect homeowners and occupants. However, it is imperative that homeowners
Robbers often survey a home before conducting the robbery. Therefore, it is a good idea to change exit and return routines and routes as much as possible.
seek the advice of a trusted security provider to install an alarm system that suits the property’s needs (i.e. ensuring all areas of the property are covered), while also meeting the appropriate security industry standards.
Following the installation, security alarms must be checked and tested on a regular basis to make sure they are in working order at all times. Testing the alarm is crucial as most insurance policies stipulate that the cover is invalid if the alarm is not working or set when no one is home, which places homeowners at risk of claim rejections.
4. Change routines
Robbers often survey a home before conducting the robbery. Therefore, it is a good idea to change exit and return routines and routes as much as possible.
By befriending their neighbours, homeowners will have an extra set of eyes looking out for their property.
The use of automatic gate entrances will also ensure that homeowners do not have to leave the safety of their vehicle in order to access the premises.
5. Take caution when hiring employees
Home robberies can also result from inside information from domestic workers or former employees. As a result, it is important to take precaution when hiring employees to work in the home or on the property.
It is also imperative that policyholders check their policy cover to ensure theft by employees is indeed covered as this is often excluded on standard home contents policies.
Homeowners should never give copies of the house keys to general service providers or strangers.
When homeowners move into a new home it is imperative that they change the locks on all doors immediately as they can never be sure who previously had a copy of the keys to the house.
6. Keep the walls and garden clear
Bushes and long grass provide criminals with a good hiding place therefore homeowners should always trim down grass and large bushes and remove big trees from the property’s boundaries and driveway.
However, bushes with prickly thorns planted near windows help deter burglars from climbing into windows. In addition, gardening tools such as ladders or crowbars can assist robbers to break in so these items should always be packed away.
7. Secure doors and windows
Property owners must keep doors and windows locked when not in use.
As an added security measure, they should install burglar bars and security gates for situations when windows and doors are left open while at home.
8. Make friends with neighbours
By befriending their neighbours, homeowners will have an extra set of eyes looking out for their property. Building good relationships can also be beneficial in the event of an emergency as they will be more willing to provide assistance.
Fourie says in light of the increase in home robberies, it is becoming increasingly important for homeowners to protect themselves and their belongings.
She says by implementing the above preventative measures alongside a sound homeowners’ insurance policy, homeowners can better avoid financial and emotional strain associated with home robberies.
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