Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing & Communications for Fidelity ADT, is urging residents in Pretoria to be extra security conscious following the increase of theft of beams and theft of gate motors in the area.

"We have received numerous reports from homeowners stating that their outdoor detection beams have been stolen in Waterkloof Glen, Rooihuiskraal, Doornkloof, Centurion, The Moot, and surrounding areas. These are opportunistic criminals who are constantly moving and targeting different areas. We want to alert all residents and ensure that security measures are ramped up," she says.

Hattingh says residents need to check their perimeter security as well as their house security. “Cut back any trees or bushes around your perimeter wall and make sure that your gate has security measures in place such as locks on the motor etc. It is also a good idea to test your alarms and panic buttons to make sure all are in good working order. This should be done outside peak times,” she adds.

Criminals often target outdoor detection beams, not only to make it easier for them to break into your home later but also as a means to sell them for some extra cash. Criminals know that many homeowners do not activate their outdoor beams when they are home. This makes them easy pickings.

We are urging all our residents to safeguard their outdoor detection beams to keep you safer. homeowners can install a bracket over your beam to delay criminals. Make sure to always activate your alarm, and especially your outdoor beams. These outdoor beams act as an early warning detection system and offer valuable time to security companies responding to your emergency. She offered the following safety tips:

• Always arm your alarm, and especially your outdoor beams when you are at home • Make sure to test your alarm and beams regularly to pick up if any of them are faulty • Report stolen beams or other small items to the police • Make sure to keep yourself safe by using your alarm all the time • If you have outdoor pets, or if something is setting off your alarm beams frequently make sure to check what is causing the issue. It could be a tree blowing in the wind or rodents and insects

“Let’s all be vigilant and work together to bring these incidents to an end,” she concludes.