Regularly brief your staff on the importance of safety and security and train them to be alert to intruders and to any suspicious customer behaviour.
Sign up for a security SMS service to receive notifications when your staff open and close your business.
Criminals stake out business premises to watch movements before striking, so get the upper hand by varying the times that you make trips to the bank and always take at least one staff member with you.
Add a simple anti-gatecrashing kit to your business alarm system that can be fitted to your gate to immediately set off the alarm should anyone attempt to tamper with the gate to derail it.
Ensure sufficient fixed panic buttons are installed in the building and equip key staff with remote panic buttons.
Assess the condition of your roof regularly to ensure the tiles are still secure and won’t go flying when the wind picks up, which could not only injure someone, but also creates a potential weak spot in your home security.
Change your front door so that it opens outwards and install your security gate on the inside. This makes it harder for criminals to kick the door down.
Consider fixing additional locking devices, such as a safety chain or catch, to your front door to reinforce resistance.
Valuable time is wasted if your house number is not visible. Be sure your property number is visible day and night from the road.
Ensure that external beams and cameras as well as electric fences are always activated, even when you are home. Early detection buys time to allow you to move to a safer, locked room.
Keep a spare remote panic button in a waterproof container in the bathroom as house robbers often lock their victims in the bathroom.
When leaving a shopping mall be prepared when you approach your car. Get your car keys out before you leave the centre and do not remotely unlock your car until you’re right by it.
Invest in a waterproof pouch to keep your car keys or other valuables with you while you surf or swim at the beach.
Always try to avoid walking alone after dark. If you don't have a choice, carry pepper spray or have your keys handy to use in self defence.
Be mindful of the way you dress, especially if you will be walking alone. Shoes like wedges and high heels, and tight skirts, will be hard to run in while scarves and long necklaces are easy to grab.
When walking or jogging with your phone, don’t walk and talk. Keep it out of sight.
Always be aware of your surroundings. If you notice someone suspicious approaching you, don’t look down, rather look them boldly in the eye.
Respond to the mugger's questions neutrally and not in a confrontational manner.
Try to take a mental snapshot of what the mugger looks like, distinguishing features, clothing, tattoos and scars.
If you have a smart phone, activate the ‘Find my phone’ app to help track it down when stolen.
Don’t be afraid to draw attention to yourself and the mugger by shouting for help.
Never lean in towards a car if someone stops to ask for directions. This makes it easier for a criminal to pull you inside the car.
Situational awareness is your best defense. Look further ahead than just your next few steps and immediate surroundings.
Assailants are often sizing up people entering and exiting shopping malls to identify soft targets. Don’t look like an easy target, walk with intent and like someone who knows how to handle trouble.
When travelling on foot, always your gut instinct and change your course if something doesn’t ‘feel right’ ahead.
When at the mall keep any bags clutched tightly under your arm and when on an escalator move it to the front of your body.
Never trust a stranger based on his appearance. Most offenders don’t even look like criminals but your friendly next door neighbour, and are sometimes dressed quite well.
Regularly brief your staff on the importance of safety and security and train them to be alert to intruders and to any suspicious customer behaviour.
Ensure sufficient fixed panic buttons are installed in the building and equip key staff with remote panic buttons.
Add a simple anti-gatecrashing kit to your business alarm system that can be fitted to your gate to immediately set off the alarm should anyone attempt to tamper with the gate to derail it.
Criminals stake out business premises to watch movements before striking, so get the upper hand by varying the times that you make trips to the bank and always take at least one staff member with you.
Sign up for a security SMS service to receive notifications when your staff open and close your business.
Keep a spare remote panic button in a waterproof container in the bathroom as house robbers often lock their victims in the bathroom.
Change your front door so that it opens outwards and install your security gate on the inside. This makes it harder for criminals to kick the door down.
Assess the condition of your roof regularly to ensure the tiles are still secure and won’t go flying when the wind picks up, which could not only injure someone, but also creates a potential weak spot in your home security.
Consider fixing additional locking devices, such as a safety chain or catch, to your front door to reinforce resistance.
Valuable time is wasted if your house number is not visible. Be sure your property number is visible day and night from the road.
Ensure that external beams and cameras as well as electric fences are always activated, even when you are home. Early detection buys time to allow you to move to a safer, locked room.
Rather pay for safer parking than opt for free parking that could mean a long walk back to your car in the dark. Always park in a well-lit area.
As you get closer to home, take note of people walking in the streets or loitering on the pavements, and also check for vehicles parked on the pavements.
If your car is parked in the street, walk with the keys in your hands so that you can defend yourself by gouging an attacker in the eye.
Keep an inflatable tyre tube repair kit in the boot of your car. You don’t want to be vulnerable taking ten minutes to change a punctured tyre on a bad stretch of road.
Install smash and grab on your car windows.
Place your child’s car seat directly behind the driver’s seat so that you can quickly grab your child out of the car in case of a hijacking.
Keep car windows shut and use the airconditioner instead.
Vary your routines if possible and report any suspicious individuals or vehicles parked near your property to the police and your security company.
Never pull over when someone points at your car, claiming that something is wrong. Suspects use this tactic to get you to open your window or get out of the car. Rather drive to the nearest garage or shop where you will be safe to have a look yourself or can ask for assistance.
Always remember to lock your doors when driving. Suspects often hijack or smash-and-grab motorists stopped at a red traffic light. Don’t make it any easier for them by simply leaving your doors unlocked.
Drive in the centre lane away from pedestrians and be vigilant at stop streets and traffic lights.
Hijackings often occur at shopping mall parking lots and outside schools. Be vigilant when getting out of and into your vehicle in a parking lot.
Don’t stop at the side of the road to talk on your cellphone or to check for directions as this places you at risk of a hijacking. Rather drive to the nearest business or shopping centre and ask for directions.
If you notice any suspicious persons or vehicles near your home, drive on and call the police or your security company.
Whenever your vehicle is stationary you need to be vigilant. At traffic lights allow enough space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you so that you have room to manoeuvre in a crisis situation.
Constantly check your mirrors for people approaching your car. If someone suspicious approaches your vehicle hoot and try to attract other motorists’ attention, or drive away if you can.
Switch off the radio 2km from home so you can be vigilant and pay attention. Keep an eye on and monitor any vehicles travelling behind you.
Residential and business complexes can install sophisticated intercom systems that allow residents to punch in a code to gain access or remotely open the gate using a cellphone.
Add a simple anti-gatecrashing kit to your business alarm system that can be fitted to your gate to immediately set off the alarm should anyone attempt to tamper with the gate to derail it.
Burglars often gain entry into businesses through the roof. Place dual technology detectors in your ceiling to activate your alarm.
Make sure that your perimeter wall or fence is adequately secured with an electric fence that is connected to your home alarm system.
Business parks are advised to install point-to-point beams around the internal perimeter of the yard for an additional early warning system.
Take a walk around your property to inspect fences, walls and gates checking for any evidence of damage or tampering that could allow intruders access to the property.
Lock up your tools and garden equipment in your shed or garage. Intruders are opportunistic and will take something if it is easy for them. They will also use these items to break into your home so do not give them ideas.
Keep up appearances – Create the illusion that there is someone at home even though you are away. Example would be that you leave a radio or TV playing when you are not at home.
Lock it up: Always keep your gate motor box locked to prevent battery theft and to stop intruders from switching the gate onto manual for easy access and escape. Make sure you have a key for the box on all your home key bunches.
Secure the windows and walls of your home with infrared strip beams that will sound the alarm if anyone tries to climb up the side of the house to get onto the roof.
Make sure that your perimeter wall or fence is adequately secured with an electric fence that is connected to your home alarm system.
Ensure your panic buttons are installed in accessible areas and that your children can also reach them.
Housebreakers often gain entry into homes through the roof. Place dual technology detectors in your ceiling to activate your alarm.
Invest in a good quality security gate that will buy you time in an emergency situation. Keep it locked at all times and don’t leave the keys in a place where they are easily reached.
If you have an automated gate, ensure that it has been programmed to auto-close after a predetermined time. Remember to keep an eye on the gate to ensure it closes all the way.
Secure sliding glass doors. You can do this by cutting a wooden pole or thick dowel to fit in the groove of the tracks when the door is shut, and lay it in before you leave. This won’t stop someone from shattering the glass, but it will make gaining entry a little harder and make your home a less desirable target.
Check all windows, burglar bars and security gates to ensure putty and screws are not loose and that there are no rusted or damaged bars that might need to be replaced.
One of the best defensive strategies against crime is maintaining a high level of alertness.
If you notice any suspicious person or vehicles near your home, drive on and call the police or your security company.
Beware of repairmen, delivery personnel or general workers in the proximity of your home.
When you are inside your home, it is also necessary to remain vigilant, by arming the perimeter alarm, and making sure that doors and windows are secured and locked.
Ensure your property has sufficient external lighting.
Cut back any overgrown bushes that could provide hiding places to intruders.
Remind your domestic worker regularly not to let any strangers onto the property.
Secure second floor windows and doors with burglar bars and sensors linked to the alarm.
Change your front door so that it opens outwards and install your security gate on the inside. This makes it harder for criminals to kick the door down.
Add a simple anti-gatecrashing kit to your home alarm system that can be fitted to your gate to immediately set off the alarm should anyone attempt to tamper with the gate to derail it.
Fit an inexpensive metal “anti-lift” bracket onto your gate to stop criminals from being able to lift the gate off its railing to get inside.
Install the gate motor at least an arm’s length away from the perimeter fence to prevent criminals from reaching in to tamper with it.
Valuable time is wasted if your house number is not visible. Be sure your property number is visible day and night from the road.
Physically check that your car doors and boot are locked to make sure your vehicle has not been remote jammed.
Remote jammers operate outside schools and in shopping mall parkades so always remember to manually check that your car’s doors are locked before walking away.
Be prepared when you approach your car. Get your car keys out before you leave the shopping mall and do not remotely unlock your car until you’re right by it.
Don’t walk away from your car before you engage the remote locking.
Try to park in secure areas and be aware of suspicious surroundings and persons.
Make sure you hear the beep of your car alarm system and / or sound of the locking mechanism.
Only leave an electric blanket switched on throughout the night if it has thermostatic controls for safe all-night use, and remember to switch it off and unplug it in the morning.
If you’re digging up those electric blankets from the linen cupboard minimise a fire risk by checking for danger signs before use, such as fraying fabric, scorch marks, exposed elements and loose connections.
It’s advisable that you have a smoke detector installed, specifically in your kitchen area, and have it link to your alarm system.
If your smoke detector units are stand alone battery operated units, remember to replace the batteries at least once a year.
Ensure you have smoke detectors placed in key areas around the house. They should be installed on the ceiling or high on a wall and if you have one in the kitchen, it should be at least 3 meters from the stove to prevent a false alarm.
Don’t overload electrical outlets and only plug in one heat-producing appliance, such as a space heater, at a time.
If you have young children, make sure they know not to play with fire and keep all matches and lighters out of reach.
Practice caution when using candles and never leave a burning one unattended.
When using heaters, fireplaces and candles, make sure they are clear of blankets, curtains or any other flammable fabrics.
Keep an inflatable tyre tube repair kit in the boot of your car. You don’t want to be vulnerable taking ten minutes to change a punctured tyre on a bad stretch of road.
Whenever your vehicle is stationary you need to be vigilant. At traffic lights allow enough space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you so that you have room to manoeuvre in a crisis situation.
Constantly check your mirrors for people approaching your car. If someone suspicious approaches your vehicle hoot and try to attract other motorists’ attention, or drive away if you can.
Switch off the radio 2km from home so you can be vigilant and pay attention. Keep an eye on and monitor any vehicles travelling behind you.
As you get closer to home, take note of people walking in the streets or loitering on the pavements, and also check for vehicles parked on the pavements.
Vary your routines if possible and report any suspicious individuals or vehicles parked near your property to the police and your security company.
Never pull over when someone points at your car, claiming that something is wrong. Suspects use this tactic to get you to open your window or get out of the car. Rather drive to the nearest garage or shop where you will be safe to have a look yourself or can ask for assistance.
Always remember to lock your doors when driving. Suspects often hijack or smash-and-grab motorists stopped at a red traffic light. Don’t make it any easier for them by simply leaving your doors unlocked.
Keep car windows shut and use the airconditioner instead.
Rather pay for safer parking than opt for free parking that could mean a long walk back to your car in the dark. Always park in a well-lit area.
Place your child’s car seat directly behind the driver’s seat so that you can quickly grab your child out of the car in case of a hijacking.
Install smash and grab on your car windows.
If your car is parked in the street, walk with the keys in your hands so that you can defend yourself by gouging an attacker in the eye.
Hijackings often occur at shopping mall parking lots and outside schools. Be vigilant when getting out of and into your vehicle in a parking lot.
Don’t stop at the side of the road to talk on your cellphone or to check for directions as this places you at risk of a hijacking. Rather drive to the nearest business or shopping centre and ask for directions.
If you notice any suspicious persons or vehicles near your home, drive on and call the police or your security company.
Drive in the centre lane away from pedestrians and be vigilant at stop streets and traffic lights.
Make sure that your perimeter wall or fence is adequately secured with an electric fence that is connected to your home alarm system.
Business parks are advised to install point-to-point beams around the internal perimeter of the yard for an additional early warning system.
Residential and business complexes can install sophisticated intercom systems that allow residents to punch in a code to gain access or remotely open the gate using a cellphone.
Burglars often gain entry into businesses through the roof. Place dual technology detectors in your ceiling to activate your alarm.
Add a simple anti-gatecrashing kit to your business alarm system that can be fitted to your gate to immediately set off the alarm should anyone attempt to tamper with the gate to derail it.
Add a simple anti-gatecrashing kit to your home alarm system that can be fitted to your gate to immediately set off the alarm should anyone attempt to tamper with the gate to derail it.
One of the best defensive strategies against crime is maintaining a high level of alertness.
If you notice any suspicious person or vehicles near your home, drive on and call the police or your security company.
Beware of repairmen, delivery personnel or general workers in the proximity of your home.
When you are inside your home, it is also necessary to remain vigilant, by arming the perimeter alarm, and making sure that doors and windows are secured and locked.
Ensure your property has sufficient external lighting.
Cut back any overgrown bushes that could provide hiding places to intruders.
Remind your domestic worker regularly not to let any strangers onto the property.
Secure second floor windows and doors with burglar bars and sensors linked to the alarm.
Change your front door so that it opens outwards and install your security gate on the inside. This makes it harder for criminals to kick the door down.
Fit an inexpensive metal “anti-lift” bracket onto your gate to stop criminals from being able to lift the gate off its railing to get inside.
Install the gate motor at least an arm’s length away from the perimeter fence to prevent criminals from reaching in to tamper with it.
Valuable time is wasted if your house number is not visible. Be sure your property number is visible day and night from the road.
Take a walk around your property to inspect fences, walls and gates checking for any evidence of damage or tampering that could allow intruders access to the property.
Check all windows, burglar bars and security gates to ensure putty and screws are not loose and that there are no rusted or damaged bars that might need to be replaced.
Secure sliding glass doors. You can do this by cutting a wooden pole or thick dowel to fit in the groove of the tracks when the door is shut, and lay it in before you leave. This won’t stop someone from shattering the glass, but it will make gaining entry a little harder and make your home a less desirable target.
If you have an automated gate, ensure that it has been programmed to auto-close after a predetermined time. Remember to keep an eye on the gate to ensure it closes all the way.
Invest in a good quality security gate that will buy you time in an emergency situation. Keep it locked at all times and don’t leave the keys in a place where they are easily reached.
Housebreakers often gain entry into homes through the roof. Place dual technology detectors in your ceiling to activate your alarm.
Ensure your panic buttons are installed in accessible areas and that your children can also reach them.
Make sure that your perimeter wall or fence is adequately secured with an electric fence that is connected to your home alarm system.
Secure the windows and walls of your home with infrared strip beams that will sound the alarm if anyone tries to climb up the side of the house to get onto the roof.
Lock it up: Always keep your gate motor box locked to prevent battery theft and to stop intruders from switching the gate onto manual for easy access and escape. Make sure you have a key for the box on all your home key bunches.
Keep up appearances – Create the illusion that there is someone at home even though you are away. Example would be that you leave a radio or TV playing when you are not at home.
Lock up your tools and garden equipment in your shed or garage. Intruders are opportunistic and will take something if it is easy for them. They will also use these items to break into your home so do not give them ideas.
Teach your children to scream when a stranger grabs them and make sure they know what to do if they get separated from you. Point out a security guard so they know where and who to go to for help if they do get lost.
Avoid hanging ornaments near infrared motion detectors.
Teach your domestic workers, babysitters and children how to use the alarm system and explain that it’s important to not accidentally activate a panic button while cleaning the home.
Secure windows and doors properly before turning on the alarm, and don’t be tempted to run back inside to fetch something as this is one of the common causes of false alarms.
Download the Blue Security Mobile App and cancel a false alarm from the comfort of your couch without having to take a call from the control centre.
Faulty alarm systems and weak batteries can cause false alarms. Check your batteries and service your alarm system and electric fence regularly to ensure it is in optimal working order.
Ensure your panic buttons are installed in accessible areas and that your children can also reach them. Show them where the panic buttons are located and explain how they work, so they are familiar with the process in case of an emergency.
It’s always advisable to let a family member or friend know what your schedule for the day is going to be like, and notify them if you will be deviating from it. In the event of something happening to you, you want someone to know where you were last headed as it will increase the chances of tracking you down.
During a storm it becomes harder to discern noises coming from outside and criminals can use this to their advantage. Be extra vigilant during these conditions and never rush outside to check for damages if you hear a disturbance.
Assess the condition of your roof regularly to ensure the tiles are still secure and won’t go flying when the wind picks up, which could not only injure someone, but also creates a potential weak spot in your home security.
Don’t leave your handbag in the shopping trolley while you shop.
Never leave your shopping parcels unattended, even for a few minutes.
Limit the number of shopping bags you are carrying, so that you can keep track of everything. Combine your purchases into one or two large shopping bags.
Don’t leave your handbag in the shopping trolley while you shop.
Lock up your tools and garden equipment in your shed or garage. Intruders are opportunistic and will take something if it is easy for them. They will also use these items to break into your home so do not give them ideas.
Air conditioners are burgled for their copper. The best way to secure your air conditioner is to make it difficult for burglars by installing a cage around the unit, or by removing any ladders or objects that burglars can use to reach the air conditioner.
Keep your shopping bags in the boot of your car and out of sight, as this will limit your chances of smash and grabs. Shopping bags in plain view will make you a target when stopping at traffic lights.
Be careful how you handle your money. Don’t flash the cash while paying for items or count out your money in public.
When out shopping, plan your purchases ahead of time. Save your most expensive purchases for last, so you can head directly home afterwards.
Lock it up: Always keep your gate motor box locked to prevent battery theft and to stop intruders from switching the gate onto manual for easy access and escape. Make sure you have a key for the box on all your home key bunches.
Bolt it down: Securely bolt your gate motor into the ground to prevent theft.
Invest in a waterproof pouch to keep your car keys and valuables with you while you surf or swim at the beach.
Physically check that your car doors and boot are locked to make sure your vehicle has not been remote jammed.
Make sure you hear the beep of your car alarm system and / or sound of the locking mechanism.
Try to park in secure areas and be aware of suspicious surroundings and persons.
Don’t walk away from your car before you engage the remote locking.
Keep your shopping bags in the boot of your car and out of sight, as this will limit your chances of smash and grabs. Shopping bags in plain view will make you a target when stopping at traffic lights.
Be prepared when you approach your car. Get your car keys out before you leave the shopping mall and do not remotely unlock your car until you’re right by it.
Remote jammers operate outside schools and in shopping mall parkades so always remember to manually check that your car’s doors are locked before walking away.
Thieves smash car windows to steal school bags and sports kits which cost a small fortune to replace. Always lock school bags in the boot and drive off promptly because lingering in your car to read notes from the teacher or to check cellphone messages makes you vulnerable to criminals.
Physically check that your doors and boot are locked to make sure.
Make sure you hear the beep of your alarm system and / or sound of the locking mechanism.
DO NOT leave handbags and valuables on the seats of your vehicle.
ALWAYS keep your valuables in the boot and out of sight.
Be prepared when you approach your car. Get your car keys out before you leave the shopping mall and do not remotely unlock your car until you’re right by it.
Remote jammers operate outside schools and in shopping mall parkades so always remember to manually check that your car’s doors are locked before walking away.
Cut back any overgrown bushes that could provide hiding places to intruders.
Remind your domestic worker regularly not to let any strangers onto the property.
Beware of repairmen, delivery personnel or general workers in the proximity of your home.
Link your CCTV cameras to your alarm system in order to trigger recording when the alarm is activated.
Identify weak spots in your yard and ensure the main vulnerable areas are covered.
If you have your electric fence connected to your alarm system, regularly check that the strands are clear from encroaching vegetation to prevent false alarms.
Installing motion sensor floodlights outside where your property is dark will light up these areas on your property so that you can see clearly and not be surprised by any unexpected visitors.
Ensure your property has sufficient external lighting.