Secure your home this Xmas

Dec 23, 2013

Christmas is a time when we all seek to have fun and reunite with our extended families. As a result, many families travel to the countryside during the holidays.

By Brian Mayanja

Christmas is a time when we all seek to have fun and reunite with our extended families. As a result, many families travel to the  countryside during the holidays.

However, the holidays can also turn out to be a sad moment, if the security at your home is compromised.

To avoid being a victim, you should take charge of your security issues by securing your home using spy cameras, hiring security guards or
dogs. You can hire a trained dog from private security firms at a cost of between sh1m and 1.1m, per month.

John Zziwa, a resident of Kabowa, a Kampala suburb, who hires out dogs, says dogs are better than security guards. “Whenever, I am going on holiday, I leave dogs to guard the home but I have not had any incident of burglary,” says Zziwa.

Security guards, notwithstanding their weaknesses, are the most hired to guard homes. To hire a security guard from a private firm, one can part with between sh499,000 and sh550,000, excluding VAT, which is at 18%.

Some people may prefer to reinforce the security in their homes by installing CCTV cameras, to help whoever is at home to easily notice any danger. CCTV cameras do not stop thieves  from entering the house, but in case a crime is committed, it helps in providing video evidence.

Viren Partel, the director of Endeavour Africa, says they provide state-of-the art CCTV solutions, ranging from analogue to IP cameras. “Our CCTV cameras give high resolution and are also used for night time viewing using infrared technology,” he says.

Also, one may opt to burglar proof the doors and windows. Much as you may put up all the necessary security measures in the home, it is  necessary to cooperate with the local leaders.

In Kireka, a Kampala surburb, it is mandatory for all residents going on long trips to inform the local council leaders. Abdullah Mutesasira, the Kireka B LC1 chairman, says during Christmas season, they receive few cases of theft because residents cooperate with the Police.

“For the last 10 years, we have managed to avert theft in the area. Anyone found moving aimlessly is arrested,” Mutesasira says. The Police encourages people to watch over their neighbourhood.

Police spokesperson Judith Nabakooba urges people who will travel upcountry to leave  someone to watch over the house. “Also, make sure all the security lights are always on at night.”

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});