Roof Break-Ins on the Rise: How to Safeguard Your Home

Roof Break-Ins on the Rise: How to Safeguard Your Home

South Africa is seeing a resurgence in a troubling trend where burglars enter homes and businesses by breaking through roofs. This method is on the rise, causing concern among residents and security experts alike.

Statistics reveal that homes with tile roofs are especially vulnerable. Tiles can be quickly removed, allowing easy access through the ceiling. Once inside, intruders often target alarm systems, following cables in the roof to disable them. In some cases, they enter through bathrooms, which typically lack alarm sensors, and then access the roof from there.

Given the increase in these incidents, it’s more important than ever to think about how you can better protect your home. Consider installing outdoor detection beams around your property. This can trigger alarms before intruders reach the building. For added security, microwave Passive Infra-Red detectors can be installed in roof spaces, offering better performance in hot environments compared to regular detectors.

Although recent statistics show a 4.4% decrease in residential burglaries year-on-year, there has been a 6.8% increase in the second quarter of 2023. Robberies, where homeowners are directly confronted, have also risen slightly.

The recent rise in burglaries highlights the critical need for homeowners and business owners to stay vigilant. While burglaries typically occur when no one is home, robberies pose a more direct threat, involving confrontations with intruders. Both are serious concerns, with burglaries being one of the most prevalent crimes in the country.

Communities across South Africa are affected, with areas in Kwa-Zulu Natal, such as Plessislaer and Mountain Rise, seeing particularly high numbers of break-ins. Gauteng also leads in home robberies.

To keep your home safe, take the time to regularly check and maintain your security systems. If you’re unsure about potential weak spots, consult a security expert to help you assess and strengthen your home’s defenses.

Sources:
Businesstech.co.za