Criminals have become so brazen that physical security barriers and alarms alone are no longer the only deterrents that business owners can rely on.<\/p>\n
Entry methods have evolved from classic window breaking to criminals removing front doors completely.<\/p>
\u201cWhen doors and windows pose too much of a challenge, they will enter through the roof.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve also experienced isolated incidents in which cement blocks in walls were removed so that criminals could gain entry,\u201d said Agnieszka Gryn, regional executive for Fidelity ADT.<\/p>
The good news is that as fast as these criminal modus operandi\u2019s evolve so do the security technology and solutions to combat them.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have seen a shift over the last five years, in terms of intruder detection, to using the Internet and interconnected devices.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday, mobile security apps, outdoor detection beams, add-ons to electric fencing, CCTV, smart analytics technology, video alarm verification systems (when your alarm eye picks up movement, it takes a snapshot to show the operator whether it is an intruder or something else), integrated alarm systems, that are connected to the internet and can interface with other devices like turning on lights etc, are all part of security solutions on offer,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
She added that there has also been a move towards smart analytics technology, where cameras learn to differentiate between normal and abnormal behaviour.<\/p>\n
This cuts down on reaction times, user error and the amount of manpower to keep track of all camera surveillance systems.<\/p>\n
Perimeter security and access control remains the first line of defence.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe urge all business owners to consider installing outdoor detection devices and perimeter security to reduce the chances of criminals reaching your property and gaining access to the building.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt needs to be seen as an investment not only in your assets but in your people too.<\/p>\n
\u201cFortunately, technology, like CCTV for example, has evolved immensely over the last few years making it more affordable and more advanced than ever before,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Gryn said outdoor detection beams can be strategically placed around your property which will trigger the alarm before a criminal has the chance to get to the actual building.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnother alternative worth looking at is microwave passive infra-red detectors which are specifically designed for very hot areas \u2013 such as a roof.<\/p>\n
\u201cNormal infra-red detectors are not as effective when installed in extremely hot areas,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
She pointed out that if you are considering a wall-top electric fence, make sure that the right fence is used, as well as the right installer.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe effectiveness of these fences can be compromised if the wrong fence is selected and the installation done incorrectly.<\/p>\n
\u201cChoosing the correct installer is crucial and we highly recommend getting several quotes before choosing an installer.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
ALSO READ:<\/span><\/p>\n Five important security tips to keep children safe<\/a><\/p>\n Security \u2013 an important consideration when looking for a new home<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cYou should consider getting a qualified consultant to write a technical specification for the fence.<\/p>\n \u201cThis specification should take into account factors including the wiring and structure of the fence, the height, number of zones required, and the lifespan of the fence.<\/p>\n \u201cThe specification should then be sent to electric fence installers operating in the area in order to compare pricing, quality and advice,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n Regarding gates, Gryn said its important make sure that your gate opens and closes as quickly as possible.<\/p>\n \u201cAlso ensure that the motor has a locked box covering it to stop any attempts at tampering.<\/p>\n \u201cIf you have beams, make sure the beams are installed correctly and at the most optimal angle to increase their range and effectiveness.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is also important to make sure that these beams are not obscured by shrubbery, or near reflective surfaces to prevent excessive false alarm activations.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd of course, having a reliable and professional response team on call is key.<\/p>\n \u201cEven better is a security provider that also provides pro-active patrolling in your area,\u201d\u00a0 she said.<\/p>\n Lastly, she emphasised the importance of testing and servicing the security system.<\/p>\n \u201cWear and tear on security systems is a reality and regular maintenance and upgrades are a necessity.<\/p>\n \u201cAs with any technical equipment, especially those exposed to the elements, there will be aging and wear and tear over time.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is best to address this in the form of regular maintenance of these systems.<\/p>\n \u201cEven with regular maintenance, however, every couple of years parts will need to be replaced.<\/p>\n \u201cWaiting until the system becomes faulty is not ideal,\u201d said Gryn.<\/p>\n \u201cUnfortunately, we regularly encounter incidents at small businesses where a break-in has occurred and only then business owners realise that their security system was not operating correctly.<\/p>\n \u201cWith regular maintenance and testing, this can be avoided.<\/p>\n \u201cIf you suspect there are vulnerable areas in your business security, call in a security expert to help you find solutions.\u201d<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Have a story?<\/strong><\/p>\n Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor)\u00a0<\/span>germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za <\/a><\/strong>or Leigh Hodgson (News Editor)\u00a0<\/span>leighh@caxton.co.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>or\u00a0Kgotsofalang Mashilo (journalist)\u00a0kgotsofalangm@caxton.co.za<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Remember to visit the Germiston City News on the following social media platforms:<\/p>\n Facebook<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Twitter<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Instagram<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n YouTube\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Or add the GCN on\u00a0<\/b><\/span>WhatsApp 079 406 1181<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span>or\u00a0BBM (BBM Pin: 7F102137)<\/strong>\u00a0<\/b><\/span>today, to get all the latest news.<\/p>\n Catch-up on more local news with our sister newspapers\u00a0<\/span>Bedfordview Edenvale News<\/a><\/strong>,\u00a0<\/span>Alberton Record<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0<\/span>Kempton Express<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n