Residents must arm their alarms when leaving their homes even when running a quick errand, Security Company Fidelity ADT urged.
This is after a criminal was caught by ADT Officers stealing a solar light at Waterkloof in the east of Pretoria on Saturday.
“Residents are not servicing their alarms,” said ADT spokesperson Charnel Hattingh.
“Therefore, we do not know whether they work or not and only find out too late when an incident has occurred.
“What also concerns us is that many people do not arm their alarm systems when they leave home. Sometimes, we even come across properties where the gates are left open.”
Hattingh said alarms must be regularly tested to ensure they are working at all times.
She advised residents to do the following:
- Arm their alarm even if they are at home.
- Arm alarms whenever they leave their home, even if for 30 minutes, and when they go to bed.
- Test their alarms regularly to make sure it is working.
- Teach children and workers how to use the alarm system.
- Close the windows and check all doors are locked when they leave home.
- Secure the perimeter at all times.
- Activate outdoor detection.
- Lock all garden, leisure, and other equipment away when not in use.
- Be extra vigilant when leaving and arriving home. If they notice anything or anyone suspicious, residents should not turn into their driveway.
- Never allow strangers onto the property, no matter what they say their business is. Ensure the domestic staff knows this rule.
- Carry a panic remote at all times when at home and equip domestic staff with panic buttons.
