On 1 February at approximately 03:19 Fidelity ADT Reaction Officers Khutjo Pistol responded to an alarm activation on Rembrandt street, Heidedal. On arrival he discovered that they property had been broken into. Following procedure he reported the incident to his road senior, Reaction Officer Mando Banda who was also dispatched to the scene.

The owner of the property and Officer Banda arrived at the same time and proceeded to check the premises. The suspects has forced open the burglar bars to enter the shop. While investigating they heard sounds coming from the roof. They raced outside to investigate and saw two suspects running away. Meanwhile Reaction Officer Banda went back inside to check if there was anyone else inside. He found one suspect in the bathroom hiding behind the door. Suspect was apprehended and later handed over to Heidedal SAPS.

Robin Goveia, Fidelity ADT Branch Manager, says in many of these incidents where the suspects enter through the roof, the alarm panel or antenna of the alarm was installed in the roof. “The criminals then break the panel or antenna which prevents alarm signals from reaching the control room,” he explains.

In separate incident on the 7 February, suspects targeted a truck business in attempt to steal the truck batteries. Fortunately Fidelity ADT Reaction officer Pistol, managed to arrest one of the three suspects involved. No goods were stolen. Suspect was handed over to Seargent Moodley of Heidedal SAPS.

“We urge all business owners and residents to consider installing outdoor detection devices and perimeter security to reduce the chances of criminals reaching your property and gaining access to the roof.”

Goveia says outdoor detection beams can be strategically placed around your property which will trigger the alarm before a criminal has the chance to get to the actual building. “Another alternative worth looking at is microwave Passive Infra-Red detectors which are specifically designed for very hot areas – such as a roof. Normal infra-red detectors are not as effective when installed in extremely hot areas,” he says.

He points out that if you are considering a wall-top electric fence, make sure that the right fence is used as well as the right installer. “The effectiveness of these fences can be compromised if the wrong fence is selected and the installation done incorrectly. Choosing the correct installer is crucial and we highly recommend getting several quotes before choosing an installer. You should consider getting a qualified consultant to write a technical specification for the fence. This specification should take into account factors including the wiring and structure of the fence, the height, number of zones required, and the lifespan of the fence. The specification should then be sent to electric fence installers operating in the area in order to compare pricing, quality and advice.”

Goveia adds the following other perimeter security tips worth taking note of:

• Gates – make sure that your gate opens and closes as quickly as possible. Also ensure that the motor has a locked box covering it to stop any attempts at tampering.
• Bushes and trees – make sure that bushes and trees on your property are checked regularly to ensure they are not affecting your perimeter security. Branches should be cut back to prevent blocking or impeding the effective functioning of your perimeter security, or where they may be used to climb into and access your property.
• Beams – make sure that beams are installed correctly and at the most optimal angle to increase their range and effectiveness. It is also important to make sure that these beams are not obscured by shrubbery, or near reflective surfaces to prevent excessive false alarm activations.
• Servicing your entire security system – It is very important that you have your security system serviced on a regular basis. Fidelity ADT recommends that you have your alarm serviced at least once a year, and that you test your security system at least once a month.

“Please take a walk around your property and look for possible access points to your property and roof. If you suspect there are vulnerable areas, call in a security expert to help you find solutions,” he concludes.

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COMPILED ON BEHALF OF FIDELITY ADT BY CATHY FINDLEY PR. MEDIA QUERIES CONTACT JACQUI MOLOI ON 0717648233 OR This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..