Gate Motor Battery theft a problem in Rustenburg

Theft of gate motor batteries a risk in Rustenburg, Fidelity ADT reported an increase in the number of batteries being stolen. In January alone, there were seven reported incidents.

Clair Joubert, Fidelity ADT Branch Manager the problem is increasing in the area. She says there is a thriving black market for gate motor parts. “Most of the homes being targeted have gate motors that don’t have protective brackets on. They break open the top cover of the gate motor and remove the battery. We have also had instances, although only a few, where the protective bracket is damaged to get to the inside of the gate motor to remove the battery. We strongly recommend that protective brackets with a proper decent lock is used to safeguard the gate motor batteries.”

Here are some useful tips for safeguarding your gate motor against theft and your property against a home invasion:

• Ensure that your gate motor is secured in a steel casing or bracket which is locked at all times. Suspects often just place their hands through the gate if your gate motor is unsecured and installed right next to a “palisade-type” gate”. They are then able to switch the gate to manual and access your property.
•  Make use of a good quality lock to secure the motor’s theft-resistant cage. Preferably opt for an insurance-rated padlock
• Install adequate anti-lift brackets and welding a piece of flat bar onto the gate rack to prevent thieves from bending the rack upwards.
• Combine mechanical anti-theft systems, such as traditional theft-resistant cages, with electronic notification devices, for example sound bombs and GSM units which are able to send notifications to users when the device’s inputs are triggered.

“Your electric gate should be one of the first perimeter deterrents to protect you from crime. We need to do our bit to reduce crime by making it harder for the criminals. Safeguard your gate motors!” concludes Joubert.

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PREPARED ON BEHALF OF FIDELITY ADT BY CATHY FINDLEY PR. CONTACT JACQUI MOLOI ON 071 764 8233 OR EMAIL JACQUI@FINDLEYPR.CO.ZA