With a crime rate that is notoriously high, it goes without saying that burglar bars, security gates, and other home security systems are in high demand throughout South Africa. 

Whether you’re living in a remote area or a crowded city, it’s essential that your home is secured in a way that reduces break-ins and other crimes as much as possible. This means having basic security in place, inside and outside your home. 

Some of the most important security features you might consider include the following:

• Gates and burglar bars. Physical barriers to entry remain one of the simplest and most affordable options
• Security cameras. Despite being secure in most cases, a very determined criminal could still breach the property with the right tools and enough time and effort. Cameras are one way to monitor what is going on within your property 
• Security guards and armed response. For businesses or larger homes that can afford to hire an on-site guard, the physical presence of an armed guard can also help to deter potential crimes
• Integrated security. For most homeowners, an integrated approach that includes physical barriers, cameras, alarms, armed response, and even security dogs can often be the best solution

Security lockdown 🔒

How do you go about getting started with home security systems and other measures to protect your home? To help you get one step closer to a secured home, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Consider an integrated approach

As we mentioned above, this is by far the most sensible option which will allow you to ensure the best possible level of protection. 

Keep your front garden clear 

Avoid high hedges and other large bushes in your front garden – especially around your driveway. Criminals use these areas to hide. 

Choose the right front gate

An automatic gate is always the safest option, compared to one that requires you to get out of your car to open the gate. This way, you can stay in your car with the engine running while the gate opens.

Create a safe area

If you live in a high crime area, or if you want added safety, you could also create a safe room or a safe area. Fit an expanding gate into part of your home for an area you can use in the event of an emergency.

Keep emergency contacts

Always have a list of contacts, and add an emergency contact number to your phone’s speed-dial. Do this on your landline and on your mobile phone.

Keep your alarm in optimal shape 

Do a test at least once a month. If there are any faults, get them fixed as soon as possible. Remember to inform your security company that you’re doing the test.

Choose your security company wisely

Ensure that they’ll respond immediately if an alarm goes off, rather than calling first to check that things are ok. This delay can be very dangerous in the event of an emergency.

Choosing the burglar bars for you

Burglar bars may ruin the ‘look’ of your window, but they are by far one of the most effective deterrents. Windows can be broken all too easily. This is often one of the first entry points that intruders will consider. If a criminal is driving by your home and your large, open, bar-less windows are spotted, it will look far more inviting than the house next door that has secure bars across all its windows.

Choosing the security gates for you

Security gates are another essential element for home protection. These gates are used to protect front and back doors, acting as an additional physical barrier. Just like expanding windows, expanding gates from brands such as Maxidor and Trellidor are the strongest, safest choice. For potential criminals hoping to quickly enter a properly, these gates serve as a strong deterrent as they are far harder to get through than fixed metal gates.

Listen to your security needs 🔊

We hope that this guide to home security systems has helped you understand how home security works in South Africa. Although it may seem as though these measures increase the level of fear and worry so many homeowners feel, having a simple but effective system in place will go a long way in making you sleep better at night. 

With a number of trusted companies to be found in South Africa, whether offering burglar bars, security gates, security systems or fully integrated solutions, you should be able to find the home security system that is just the right fit for you and your family. Make sure to check the best safety companies, and the reviews they’ve received from fellow South Africans.

Reviews on Hellopeter have helped over one million consumers make better choices. Had an experience you’d like to tell us about? Leave us a review here.