Given that most of our safety and security features are technology-based, load shedding has the potential to leave your home unprotected while the power is out. To help you prevent that from happening, below are a few ways to keep your home safe during load shedding:
1. Have back-up security systems
Having a security system in your home has become more important than ever before. However, now that we have run into trouble with our national power supply, electric security systems such as video surveillance and alarm systems might not be as effective as traditional burglar bars and safety gates in the event of load shedding. Invest in a security system that can take back-up batteries which can engage in the event of a power outage. Always ensure that the back-up batteries are fully charged and functioning properly before the next power outage. You should also consider investing in a 17-amp hour battery that lasts longer in the instance of prolonged load shedding schedules.
Top Tip: Always ensure your cell phone is fully charged for emergencies and consider a battery-operated panic button that is easily accessible in the instance where an unwanted guest does arrive.
2. Ensure your home is well-lit
Try to keep your property as well-lit as possible during a power outage to minimise the risk of your home being the target of criminal activity. For example, you could leave a battery-charged light on in each of the front-facing rooms of the property so that the house appears well-lit from street-view. You could also invest in solar-powered lights or battery-operated lights for the front of your home to increase lighting and visibility during load shedding. Criminals are more likely to be deterred from a home that appears to be busy from the outside.
3. Secure the surrounding area
Keep manual locks on electric gates that can be easily opened when the electricity switches off. Certain electric gates – especially those that have worn with age – can open without resistance when the power shuts off. You might want to test your electric garage doors and backyard gates just to be sure your house does not become easily accessible when the power shuts off.
4. Be extra vigilant during load shedding
Be vigilant when returning home in the dark. Install battery-powered motion-sensor lights in your front garden to try and ward off any intruders who might plan on lurking in your bushes to take you by surprise when you arrive home. As mentioned, keep manual locks on electric gates so that you’re not left stranded outside your home during load shedding.
Investing in home security can help you sell
You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting your home and most importantly, your family. Upgrading your home’s security is not only necessary for load shedding, but it’ll also benefit you should you decide to sell your home in the future. Just don’t forget to mention these security features to your real estate professional to include when marketing your home.
