The mid-year school holidays are upon us and it\u2019s a great time to take a break with the family, whether it be at home or at a holiday destination.<\/p>\n
This period can, however, also present a prime opportunity for would-be criminals to take advantage of your empty home while you are away for just a few hours, or, for a few days.<\/p>
How can you ensure the safety of your home and loved ones?<\/p>\n
Fidelity ADT\u2019s general manager inland region, Agnieszka Gryn, said the first and most important step is to regularly test your alarm, to ensure that it is in good working order.<\/p>
It is also a good idea to let your security company know what your holiday plans are, and how best to get in touch with you in the event of an emergency.<\/p>\n
\u201cHigh walls, electric fencing and other security measures may be practical solutions to protecting your property.<\/p>\n
\u201cHowever, they may hinder emergency access should an incident occur.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn this regard, it is best to consult your security service provider about alternate access options such as lock boxes,\u201d said Gryn.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
ALSO READ:<\/span><\/p>\n Security \u2013 an important consideration when looking for a new home<\/a><\/p>\n Five important security tips to keep children safe<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Additional security tips for holiday makers:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Cut back any bushes or trees that may offer easy access over walls or gates to your property, or provide places for criminals to hide.<\/p>\n \u2022 Inform your neighbours and neighbourhood watch of your holiday plans so that they can keep an eye on your property.<\/p>\n \u2022 If hiring a house-sitter, ensure that you teach them how to use your alarm correctly.<\/p>\n \u2022 If you don\u2019t have a house-sitter, ask a neighbour or a friend to turn on lights occasionally so that there is a sense that someone is around. If this is not possible, \u00a0consider putting your outside lights on a timer.<\/p>\n \u2022 Double check that you have locked and secured all windows and doors before leaving home.<\/p>\n \u2022 Turn off your geyser and any unnecessary electrical appliances so you can save on electricity and be environmentally friendly.<\/p>\n \u201cLet\u2019s all enjoy this winter break knowing that security measures are in place,\u201d she said.<\/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 <\/p>\n