Marked increase In Home Break-Ins During Extended and Unscheduled Load Shedding Periods

Marked increase In Home Break-Ins During Extended and Unscheduled Load Shedding Periods

Load shedding, which is now a daily occurrence in South Africa, is more than just an inconvenience; it is also a crime risk, leading to an increase in Home Break-Ins and vehicle accidents. When power is disrupted, it also affects alarm systems, gate motors, and electric fencing, making it easier for criminals to gain access to your property and allows them to take more time there.

One of the most dangerous effects of load shedding is when streetlights and traffic lights go out at night. Drivers are encouraged to always drive cautiously, but especially in low-light conditions. Treat all uncooperating traffic lights as a four-way stop, and yield to oncoming traffic from the right. “Where no signs are in sight, give way to the right”.

To keep safe and avoid falling victim to criminals, SCP Security recommends the following:

• Keep constant track of the proposed load-shedding times so that your family has enough time to prepare for the outage.

• Purchase a few high-wattage solar-powered flood lights for your garden, as well as a few LED rechargeable lights for indoor use. These will serve as a deterrent to would-be burglars.

• Keep your cell phone charged or invest in a portable phone charger/ power bank, so you can still call for assistance if necessary.

• Install a keypad access control device to allow quicker response and access by your Armed Security Service patroller. Saves time on having to use keys assigned to gain access to your premises. You can change the code at will and advise SCP Security to update your records for security purposes.

• Should you need to manually open and close your gates when you get home, have someone meet you at the door or arrange for a security company escort.

• Use padlocks, burglar bars, and deadbolts to add an extra layer of security to your home that isn't reliant on electricity.

• Alarm systems, garage doors, and electric gates all rely on a power source, so ensure that all these items have adequate backup batteries and test them regularly.

• Keep a torch or a solar battery-powered lights that have been pre-charged in several easily accessible locations around your home. Ensure you have plenty of spare batteries on hand.

• To reduce grid pressure, ensure that all appliances, particularly those that pose a fire risk if left unattended, are turned off when load shedding begins and turn them back on gradually once power is restored. Load shedding increases the likelihood of power surges, which can damage household appliances. While power surge insurance is available, it is best to unplug vulnerable appliances and devices before the storm arrives.

• Source : SCP Security•