Fidelity ADT urges residents to remain vigilant and arm your alarms even if you are at home, especially when going to bed. Residents need to be aware that criminals are becoming more brazen and we have seen an increase in the number of house break-ins and home invasions.

There have been two reported home invasions in the Houghton area where residents did not arm their alarm when going to bed. We have also seen an increase in housebreak-ins in the Midrand area where alarms where not armed.

“What concerns us is that many people don’t arm their alarm systems when they are at home or going to bed and we sometimes even come across properties where gates are left open.”

Perimeter security is the first layer of defence, according to Charnel Hattingh Head of Marketing & Communications for Fidelity ADT. Homeowners need to ensure their gates are secure at all times and can’t be lifted off the rails. The entire perimeter of the property should be checked regularly for weaknesses.

Security tips from Fidelity ADT:

• Arm your alarm even if you are at home
• Arm your alarm whenever you leave your home, even if for 30 minutes and when you go to bed
• Teach your children and domestic worker how to use your alarm system
• Close windows and check all doors are locked
• Secure your 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 you notice anything or anyone suspicious, don’t turn into your driveway
• Never allow strangers onto your property, no matter what they say their business is. Ensure your domestic staff know this rule
• Carry a remote panic at all times when you’re at home and equip your domestic staff with panics

Report anything suspicious to the SAPS or your security provider immediately.