Secure your gate motors as theft increases – security company

Residents in the east of Pretoria are being advised to secure their gate motors as theft and stripping plagues the area.

Fidelity ADT spokesperson Charnel Hattingh, said Constantia Park and Newkloof security village are targeted in this rising trend.

“The incidents occur at various times during the day and night,” she said.

Hattingh said there is a thriving black market for gate motor parts.

“Stolen gate motors are either stripped down and its various components (batteries, gearboxes, etc.) sold individually or they are sold as complete units to unsuspecting homeowners by these ‘access automation bandits’ as they are often referred to.”

She said there is also a worrying trend of suspects deactivating the gate motor and accessing the property while on manual override.

Hattingh also recommended installing anti-theft brackets over outdoor beams to delay criminals and ensure these devices remain functional as early warning systems.

The security company shared some useful tips for safeguarding gate motors:

– Ensure that your gate motor is secured in a steel casing or bracket which is locked at all times. Suspects often just place their hands through the gate if the gate motor is unsecured and installed right next to a “palisade-type” gate. They are then able to switch the gate to manual and access your property.

– Consider installing 180-degree beams that will monitor your gate.

– Make use of a good quality lock to secure the motor anti-theft cage. Preferably opt for an insurance-rated padlock.

– Install adequate anti-lift brackets and weld a piece of flat bar onto the gate rack to prevent thieves from bending the rack upwards.

– Combine mechanical anti-theft systems, such as traditional theft-resistant cages, with electronic notification devices, for example, sound bombs and Global System Mobile units which can send notifications to users when the device’s inputs are triggered.

“Your electric gate should be one of the first perimeter deterrents to protect you from crime,” she said.

“Activate early-warning systems such as garden beams and/or electric fencing and ensure these are linked to armed response,” Hattingh added.

“We need to do our bit to reduce crime by making it harder for criminals.”

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