By: Natasha Archary
Homeowners who think they’re safeguarded against loadshedding because they’ve invested in solar panels, should think again.
This after private security company Fidelity ADT warned homeowners about a new trend targeting homes with solar panels.
According to Fidelity ADT, there’s been a rise in solar panels being stolen from homes across the country.
This typically happens during the day when thieves suspect there’s no one at home. With more homeowners desperately looking for electricity alternatives, South Africans are being cautioned to ramp up security before investing in solar panels.
“Over the past few weeks, we have received reports of solar panels being stolen from properties, during the day whilst homeowners are at work.
As criminals continue to shift and change their patterns and behaviour, it is essential that homeowners keep up with trends and better ways to secure their homes.
This can include a combination of electric fencing, motion-detecting beams and motion-activated lights, burglar bars and interior detection systems.”
Fidelty ADT’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Charnel Hattingh
The key is to make accessing your property as difficult as possible for criminals says Charnel Hattingh, Fidelty ADT’s Head of Marketing and Communication.
Hattingh shares some tips to safeguard your solar panels from being stolen, these include:
- Cut away excess shrubs and bushes, as this serves as a good hiding spot for criminals.
- Always keep your alarm armed and use its different features
- Join your local neighbourhood watch and street WhatsApp [or Telegram] groups.
- Have visible armed response signage that can also serve as a deterrent.
- Install quality CCTV cameras around your premises that will help police with investigations and deter opportunistic criminals.
- Ensure that your yard is well-lit at all times.
- Always have barrier security installed (electric fence, beams, sensor lights, burglar bars and interior detection).
- Lock tools and garden equipment away. Don’t let your stepladder be the means by which criminals get onto your balcony or roof.
- Never leave your wheelie bin out overnight, as criminals not only use these to climb on, but they also use them to transport stolen goods.
Due to the rolling blackouts that are here to stay indefinitely, South Africans are spending thousands on solar energy panels and battery backup systems.
Solar power to provide some or all of your electricity requirements can cost between R55 000 and R250 000.
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