HAD AN interesting conversation with a friend the other night, one that became quite heated at times. It was about security and the perceptions we have of where and what is adequate or appropriate to deal with it in different situations.
In Jamaica we have four main ways of dealing with our fears of being burgled, mugged, raped, or killed. We install grill work on every opening, get dogs, build walls, and hire guards.
For those who can afford it, the "gated" community is the ticket. But are these really the appropriate or even adequate solutions?
I read once that "No greater danger lies, than in one's own false sense of security."
This may be why the statistics show that most robberies are committed at front gates or door both outside and inside the reason being that's where most people start to relax and let their guard down.
As Michael Corleone says in 'Godfather II', "If history has taught us nothing else, it has taught us that you can kill anyone if you want to badly enough."
The grills slow a burglar down but will not stop him. Dogs are pretty good warning signals, and may attack, if not fed poisoned meat. Walls are made to be scaled, and allow the trespasser to carry on his business concealed from a passer-by.
A guard is only as good as how much sleep he does not need, and can actually be a gun hunter magnet.
The gated community is really concealed upper class snobbery wanting to hide from the gate knockers, and feeling such self importance as to have guests announced. The reality is that security comes from far more than what you get by spending a few more dollars; it comes from being aware, along with a combination of deterrents.
The key is to win the psychological battle between yourself, the potential victim, and the would be assailant. No thief or potential killer likes it when the intended victim knows he is coming. Occupants of houses, offices, etc., therefore should not just rely on their own limited experience, but heed the advice of experts.
Most security systems (not just electronic) rely on warning, and letting the perpetrator know that he has been detected. Do you really even want him close enough to catch? It may be too late by then.
The alarm, the dog, the light, and observers frighten him away, and he gives up before he tries. Potential victim wins before battle starts.
Surprisingly, you will find that the solution to your perceived security risk and the real risk may be very simple and inexpensive yet very effective.
Ask questions before shelling out all that dough to contractors, security firms, and kennels. Find out which combination will best suit your needs. And most importantly, do not compromise the measures you do take by being complacent.
Email: vitruvius_@hotmail.com
