Dr. Chris de Kock: Consultant/Analyst: Crime, Violence, and Crowd Behaviour
A recent incident in the Garsfontein precinct involved a couple being robbed in their home. During the incident, they activated the panic button, prompting the security company to respond. However, the security personnel reached the locked front gate and turned around, leaving the robbers at the scene. This situation highlights the importance of clear communication between clients and security/response companies. The following points need to be conveyed to both security companies and their clients:
For Clients of Security/Response Companies:
- Confirm whether you have panic buttons. If unsure, inquire with your security/response provider.
- Keep your panic button within easy reach. For instance, have it next to your bed while sleeping or in your braai area.
- Carry the panic button on your person when moving around your property, ensuring it's not accidentally triggered (e.g., wear it around your neck).
- In case of accidental activation, immediately contact the company.
- Test your panic button's functionality by notifying the response center before testing it within a specific timeframe.
- Regularly check and replace the batteries in your security remotes, given the potential for power failures.
- Ensure the security company has access to your premises when the panic button is used. Have a key/remote safe at the entrance for their entry if needed.
Security/Response Companies' Clients Should Not Expect:
- Responders to jump over walls, especially in the dark or during power outages, as this can lead to injuries or unexpected encounters with robbers.
Regarding Silent and Non-Silent Alarms:
- Some prefer silent alarms that alert the response center without making noise, while others opt for noisy alarms.
- Consider the advantages and disadvantages of both types, especially with the rising incidents of house robberies.
Non-Silent Alarm:
- A noisy alarm can startle and deter robbers, potentially leading them to flee. They might fire shots while escaping.
- However, determined robbers might proceed if they're after specific high-value items.
- Triggering a non-silent alarm during a face-to-face encounter can escalate the situation.
Silent Alarm:
- Robbers won't know if a silent panic button is activated, allowing them to continue their actions.
- This might lead to the theft of valuables and the removal of sim cards before the response team arrives.
- If robbers are still present, this can escalate to a hostage situation or a shootout.
The Best Approach:
- Install both wall-mounted panic buttons strategically inside the residence and portable remotes for outdoor movement.
- Wall-mounted buttons should be non-silent and used only when a barrier separates robbers from victims, especially if the robbers are in the garden.
- Portable remotes should be on silent mode for discreet signalling to the response center.
- Security companies should emphasise the proper usage of panic buttons to clients.
For Individual Clients in Gated Communities:
- In cases where access gates are controlled by security/response companies, clients may face challenges in gaining access.
- Options include providing clearly marked key/remote safes, choosing a comprehensive security provider, or sharing contact details of nearby residents for gate access.
Additional Points for Security/Response Companies:
- Instruct clients to use panic buttons only during genuine threats.
- Ensure responders can access the property up to the living unit's doors and windows.
- Opt for an alarm that makes noise and sends a signal, with a visible strobe light for easy location identification.
- Place the key/remote safe visibly near gates/doors.
- Provide operational details to responders, including the presence, position, and code of the key/remote safe.
- Alert clients about low remote battery levels.
By implementing these guidelines, both clients and security/response companies can enhance their preparedness and responsiveness during emergencies.
