Jean Jonker, Boschkop CPF PRO and chairman of the Lakes Security Forum, said most security complexes are safe because there are procedures in place to keep communities and residents safe.

“In most security estates and complexes, the focus is on two key points namely access control and perimeter protection. And those are key fundamentals to make a community safe,” said Jonker.

Although security estates and complexes take the proper measures to protect their residents, criminals are still highly intelligent and investigate the security measures put in place.

“Electric fences can be breached and are breached. Suspects still make their way past by bypassing the security system.”

The onus lies on the estate/property owners to ensure that security measures are tight. However, residents need to protect themselves with systems such as alarm systems, burglar proofing and/or security gates.

“Make sure that doors are locked and vehicles are not left unattended even in a garage – make sure they are locked with no valuables lying around,” said Jonker.

“Always make sure that you have a direct line to security to call for assistance. If you hear any intruders on your property, you can get the necessary help as soon as possible.

“Also, build relationships with your neighbours. The first person that will always respond is your neighbour.”

Although burglar bars can be broken, it still delays the criminal from getting into your house which buys you valuable time to get security there.

“When we design a security system we look at the following criteria: detect, deter, delay and respond,” said Jonker.

“You have to make sure all these boxes are ticked. It doesn’t help that you have a delay strategy but you don’t have a detection strategy. So, there should be things in place like beams or cameras that can warn you before the suspect breaks the burglar bars open.”

In the case where the property owners are not taking the necessary security precautions to ensure residents’ safety, they can be reported to the Homeowners’ Association (HOA) or the body corporate.

“The body corporate and the HOA must take relevant precautions. If they fail to do so they can be taken to the community schemes ombudsman (CSOS) where they can give a directive against the estate or complex. It will force the estate/complex to ensure those security measures are in place,” said Jonker.

Thank you REKORD for the article