Safety at home

The latest crime statistics released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), and which covers the period January to March 2023, showed a notable rise in residential robberies, according to reporting by Business Tech. 

It's a disconcerting statistics and one that homeowners and tenants can't afford to ignore. In addition to being cautious and vigilant, there are a number of ways to further secure your property, and your loved ones. 

"Safety is always important and the good news is that security features also add to the value of a property, as it adds an extra layer of appeal to prospective buyers," says Johan van Schalkwyk, Principal at Leapfrog Roodepoort.

His advice is to consider installing devices to enhance security but to also be practical and realistic. 

Cover the basics 

Burglar bars in front of windows that open and safety gates at the doors are generally the first boxes to tick. Regularly check that the main locks for the property are in good working order and be sure to keep a spare set of keys away from the property with somebody you trust. 

An alarm system  is another effective means of keeping your property safe. In fact, many home insurers require that a property has an alarm before they will insure it. Test the alarm regularly and report any possible faults to your provider immediately. 

There are a number of other security features that one might consider, such as security cameras - particularly around the perimeter of the property - and electric fencing. Both these options require a significant capital outlay, which doesn't always suit everybody's pocket. A budget-friendly option in this regard is to ensure that the property is "open" and not surrounded by foliage, shrubs and trees that hamper visibility and that could offer a would-be perpetrator an unseen way onto your property. 

Outside lights tend to also be effective as a deterrent. Install them strategically around the outside of the property and leave them on throughout the night. Exterior and garden lights also go a long way in making your outdoor space look and feel more appealing, so it's always a worthy investment. 

Strength in numbers 

One of the characteristics of safe and resilient communities is that the people in them are committed to looking out for one another. In the case of an emergency at home, it's your neighbours that can reach you the fastest, certainly faster than your friends and family and most likely faster than the emergency services too. 

Take the time to introduce yourself to neighbours and make a point of stopping for a chat occasionally. Consider notifying your neighbours if you're going to be away from home for a while, and ask them to keep an eye on the property. Informing your neighbours if you're having work done to the property or even having a lot of people around is a courtesy that can also improve relations. 

Many neighbourhoods today have WhatsApp groups for sharing relevant news and information about matters such as safety and security - consider joining one or creating a group if it doesn't yet exist. 

A watchful eye 

If there is one in your area, consider joining the neighbourhood watch. These civic organisations regularly prove to be one of the most effective ways to reduce and combat crime in neighbourhoods. Typically the neighbourhood watch works closely with the police and private armed response units to push crime out through visibility and vigilance.

They are usually always looking for extra help - be it in the form of patrolling in your car, administrative assistance or financial donations. 

Safety is a collective concern, so while it's important to take steps to secure your own property, a safe neighbourhood should be the ultimate goal.