Protect yourself

Allan van Rooyen, Director of Electronics and Armed Response at iMvula Quality Protection Security in the Upper Highway area, shares expert tips that will help keep your family safe in your home.

“First things first, an alarm system is vital,” Allan says. “Even the most basic system will ensure that you are warned of intruders.” But it’s not just a matter of installing and getting on with life, Allan also warns that it’s important to test your system at least once a month.

With that basic first line of defense in place, next Allan suggests you take a thorough inventory of your situation. “Try this exercise,” he advises. “Take a walk around your property, starting outside on the road, and imagine that you are a potential burglar.”

The team at iMvula Quality Protection secure the Kearsney grounds

What kind of fencing do you have securing the perimeter? Palisade fencing is best, in Allan’s opinion, because it still allows for good visibility. For that same reason you should avoid dense foliage around the entrances to your home, like the gate to your driveway and your front door, where potential criminals could hide.

If you choose a solid wall, make sure it’s high enough so people can’t jump over and add electric fencing or beams at the top to raise the alarm if someone does try to climb it. A good security company would be only too pleased to help you make this very necessary assessment of your needs, so ask them.

At the end of the day, your best security is still old-fashioned: the involvement and support of the entire community. Get to know your neighbours, swap phone numbers and look out for each other’s interests. A neighbourhood watch is a good way to get connected and exchange information, and has shown positive results in crime prevention.

“An iMvula representative would be happy to meet with you and your neighbours to discuss the best ways of securing your neighbourhood,” says Allan.

For more info, contact iMvula Quality Protection on 031 700 9190 or visit www.imvula.net