Fidelity ADT reminds residents to stay vigilant, secure their gates and activate their alarm, even during the day.
It is easy to feel a little more relaxed at home during the day. The gates are open while the family comes and goes, the alarm is switched off because someone is home, and the security beams might be left off while the garden is being tended to. After all, it is broad daylight, and there is a sense that crime is something more likely to happen under the cover of darkness.
But daytime crime is a real risk, and residents should not let the sunshine create a false sense of security.
According to Fidelity ADT, some of the most important security habits are also the easiest to overlook during an ordinary day at home. Whether you are working remotely, doing household chores, enjoying time in the garden or simply popping out for a few minutes, it is important to remember that being at home does not automatically mean your property is secure.
“People often associate crime with the early hours of the morning or late at night, but criminals can take advantage of opportunities during the day too. A gate left open, an alarm that has not been armed or security beams that have been switched off can make a property more vulnerable,” says Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group.
“Security is not about living in fear or constantly looking over your shoulder. It is about building small, consistent habits that help protect you, your family and your property. We all get busy, and it is easy to think we will only be away for a minute or that nothing can happen while we are home. Unfortunately, that is exactly when we can become complacent.”
Simple habits that make a difference
Fidelity ADT encourages residents to make security part of their everyday routine, rather than something they only think about when leaving home or going to bed.
Keep your gates closed. Avoid leaving your driveway or pedestrian gate open, even if you are working in the garden or expecting someone shortly. An open gate can provide an easy opportunity for an opportunistic criminal.
Arm your alarm, even when you are home. If your alarm system has a suitable stay or home-arming mode, use it to help protect the areas of your property that are not occupied. Make sure you understand how your system works and follow your security provider’s guidance.
Switch on your security beams. Outdoor beams and other detection devices should not be overlooked during daylight hours. Ensure they are activated when appropriate and positioned to protect key access points, while taking household members and pets into account.
Be mindful of who is outside your property. Take note of unfamiliar people or vehicles behaving suspiciously, particularly if someone appears to be watching homes, gates or residents coming and going. Do not approach anyone you suspect of criminal activity. Contact your security provider or the South African Police Service (SAPS) where appropriate.
Think twice before leaving access points unsecured. An open garage, unlocked side door or unattended pedestrian gate can provide an alternative way into your home. Make a quick check of these areas throughout the day.
Do not advertise when your home is empty. Even a short trip to the shops can create an opportunity. Lock up properly, activate your alarm and avoid leaving valuables visible through windows.
Hattingh says residents should also pay attention to their daily routines and avoid assuming that a quiet street or a property with visible security measures is automatically safe.
“Criminals look for opportunities, and those opportunities are not limited to a particular time of day. We encourage residents to be aware of their surroundings, get to know their neighbours and report suspicious activity. A community where people look out for one another can make a meaningful difference,” she says.
Issued by Fidelity Services Group – charnelh@fidelity-services.com
