Page 6 - Fourways Gardens Issue 9 October 2023

Security

KEEPING YOUR

KEYS SAFE

People often prioritise the safety of their homes,
vehicles and offices without paying the same

attention to the keys that unlock them. These tiny
metallic objects can put our assets at risk if they
fall into the wrong hands. 24/7 Security Services
urges everybody to pay special attention to keeping
their keys safe.

• It’s easy to lose track of keys when they are scattered around.
Label keys, keep them in a dedicated key box and ensure that
you, or someone you trust, have a record of all the keys. Resist
the temptation to leave keys in obvious places, like under the
mat or in the plant pot near the door. Do not leave the key inside
the lock after locking a door. Criminals can easily manipulate
and control the key from outside with basic tools.
• You may want to help out a friend or neighbour by lending
them your keys, but remember: every time your keys leave your
possession, the risk of loss or theft increases. If you must lend
your keys, ensure that they are returned promptly.
• Ensure that everyone in your family, including children,
understands the importance of key safety. Teach them not to Photo by Roland Denes
lend keys to others.
• Keyless entry systems are becoming increasingly popular. These
systems eliminate the need for traditional keys, replacing them
with codes or fobs, thereby reducing the risk of keys being
physically stolen.
• Choosing a key-cutting service must be done with caution.
While it may be necessary to have duplicate keys, these should
only be given to trustworthy individuals. Always opt for
professional and reputable key-cutting services, ensuring that
the duplicates aren’t accessible to potential thieves. DON’T JUST CLICK – MAKE SURE
• While key identifiers can help you to differentiate quickly
between your house and office keys, avoid marking them with IT IS LOCKED
labels that may reveal their function to others. Labels such as
‘Home’, ‘Car’ or ‘Office’ may be convenient for you, but they also Don’t become a victim of remote vehicle
provide useful information to thieves. Identify keys through
codes instead of indicating in writing on labels to which gate or jamming.
door access can be gained.
• If your keys are lost or stolen, report the incident to security Remote vehicle jamming is a practice whereby criminals use a
immediately. If the keys are for your vehicle, also inform your signal-jamming device to prevent a vehicle’s central locking and
insurance company. It may be inconvenient, but it’s advisable alarm systems from being activated – leaving a vehicle vulnerable
to change your locks after losing your keys to ensure the safety to theft and vandalism.
of your property.
• Always keep your keys in your possession or within sight. Avoid Tips to avoid becoming a victim of vehicle jamming:
leaving them unattended in public places or at work. Never • Be aware of your surroundings at all times and take note of
leave jackets or bags in public areas with your keys in them. suspicious people or activity in and around the parking area.
• Use a keychain or key holder that isn’t easily distinguishable • Report suspicious activity to security.
or identifiable as belonging to your house or vehicle. This can • Do not leave valuables in an unattended vehicle.
prevent potential criminals from easily targeting your property. • Never push the remote locking while walking away from the
• Never leave your house or vehicle keys in your vehicle, even if vehicle.
locked. This makes it easier for thieves to break into your vehicle • Check that the vehicle is locked by testing the door before
and potentially access your home. walking away, and ensure that the boot is locked.

Fourways Gardens • 4 • October 2023