BusinessTech reports that security companies have noted a shift in the modus operandi of criminals in some areas as a result of the on-going load shedding in the country. Home and business owners are urged to be aware of the effects of the blackouts on alarm and other security systems, and to be cognisant of the new ways in which criminals are taking advantage of the current state of affairs.
Security firm Fidelity ADT warns that crime is largely opportunistic and seasonal, irrespective of load shedding. However they have observed the following shifts in criminal behaviour, as well as technical and logistical issues arising as a result of the power outages:
- Criminals are checking the load shedding schedule for a targeted property, then just before the planned outage they are tripping the power at the electric box, disarming the electric fence and sometimes derailing the electric gate. Residents assume the power has simply gone off early and don’t react.
- Extended electricity outages can also result in many alarm battery systems being unable to fully recharge, which criminals seem to be aware of
- The ongoing power cuts are causing batteries to deteriorate faster
- Faulty batteries cause alarm malfunctions which send activation trigger alerts, raising the number of false alarms and overtaxing the security company’s resources
- There has been an increase in alarm activity in terms of both emergency and non-emergency signals
- More brazen daylight break-in attempts are being made by criminals recently
- There have been increased reports of cable theft as criminals take advantage of the fact that there is no electricity to steal high-power cables
“As we know, criminals are opportunistic. They are always looking for an easy way in. Load shedding is another opportunity for them to exploit” ~ Fidelity ADT.
Steps you can take:
- Test your alarm system on a regular basis
- Test and replace the battery more frequently than usual and don’t ignore SMS messages that refer to low battery. If you’re not sure if your batteries are working optimally, call your security provider to test.
- Alarms and energisers should be checked during extended power outages to keep systems running.
- Make sure that your electric fence is connected to a backup battery
- Lock all doors and windows all the time (in your house, vehicle, office and any outbuildings on your property), whether you are on the property at the time or not.
- Power cuts can impact smoke alarms and fire control systems; so these also need to be checked regularly. Also keep fire extinguishers at the ready in case of blazes caused by the use of candles and gas during power outages
- As jewellers know all too well; keep valuable items out of sight and never leave these anywhere near a window.
- Above all, remain vigilant during a power cut. If you are worried about your security, ask your armed response provider to check the premises, and be sure to report any suspicious activity to them and to SAPS.
This latest spate of electricity rationing is due to a “significant shortfall” of generation. At the tine of writing (Autumn 2022) approximately 36% of total installed capacity was unavailable due to breakdowns. Eskom’s chief executive officer Andre de Ruyter told reporters. “Extraordinary measures are needed to improve the system. The performance has been quite disappointing.”
