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ALWAYS PUT SAFETY FIRST

15 November 2019 · Platinum Bushvelder

ALWAYS PUT SAFETY FIRST

Thabazimbi – After the recent surge in criminal activities in and around Thabazimbi, Platinum Bushvelder spoke to Monster Security Services owner Francois Roets for expert safety advice. 

“The safety and security of your family is our number one concern, but the most important first step in improving your safety is vigilence.

By simply being aware of your surroundings, you already reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime,” he said. 


There are six main areas you can focus on when it comes to improving your home’s security: 


WALLS VS FENCING
According to Francois, a high fence around the house is much safer than a high wall – due to the advantage of the visibility it provides. Always ensure that your gates are locked and that the keys are not easily accessible.


SECURITY ALARMS
An alarm system, preferably connected to an armed response company, can act as an effective deterrent. In a rural area, it is good to have a siren or alarm that can be heard far away.

Panic buttons in different rooms of the house are advised, and the alarm should be able to warn the occupants if there is an intruder. Dogs, geese and ostriches also make for great alarms.


SECURITY LIGHTS
Security lights on the outside of a house improves protection. The lights must be directed away from the house and must allow the occupants to see the outside-area without having to leave the house. Dark corners in a garden are great hiding spots for intruders.


SAFETY HABITS

  • Ensure that your doors are always locked and windows are closed when you are not home.
  • Dogs serve as a deterrent, but it is advised to train at least one dog to sleep inside.
  • Ensure that tools such as axes, picks or ladders, that can be used in an attack, are locked away when not in use. 
  • Vary your daily routine.
  • If you are unsure about the security status of your home, phone your local armed response company and ask for assistance when entering your premises after returning. 
  • Identify safe places where you can find refuge.
  • Involve your family and employees in maintaining security so that you are all on equal footing.
  • Report any suspect behaviour to the police.
  • Clear areas around gates where intruders can hide.
  • Ensure that you have a good relationship with your neighbours and communicate safety issues with each other.

ACCESS AND KEY CONTROL

  • Do not allow strangers on your premises or in your house without proper identification.
  • Mark keys by codes rather than name tags.
  • Never hide keys in traditional places like under doormats or flowerpots.
  • Change your locks after losing your keys.

COMMUNICATION
Always have your cellphone close by where it is easily accessible from anywhere in the house and make sure that it is charged. It is important that you teach your children never to give any indication that adult supervision is not available when they answer the phone.


CONTACT MONSTER SECURITY SERVICES
If you ever find yourself in a life-threating situation or for more information, contact Monster Security Services on 014 772 1422. It is wise to have an armed trained professional to have your back in case of emergency.

Monster Security Services team, back from left: critical life assist (CLA) 911 basic life support medic Andrew Molebatsi, manager Herman van der Linden and owner Gerhard Herman. Front from left: CLA 911 advance life support (ALS) medic Günter Labuschagne, owner Francois Roets and CLA 911 ALS medic Zandré Pieterse.
Monster Security Services owner Francois Roets (left) and manager Herman van der Linden.