Calibre Security Shares Winter Home Security Checklist For St Francis Residents

by SFT | Jun 2, 2026 | St Francis

The following winter safety and security advice has been provided by Calibre Security for residents of St Francis Bay and surrounding areas.

Winter in St Francis Bay brings darker evenings, stormy weather, power outages, and colder conditions. As a result, people tend to spend more time indoors and often rush inside to escape the rain and cold.

However, winter can also be a time when small security issues go unnoticed. A light that stops working, a gate that does not close properly, or a flat backup battery can quickly become a bigger problem.

The Calibre Security team has shared several important reminders for residents this winter.

Check Outdoor Lighting

Make sure driveway, garden, gate, and entrance lights are working properly during the longer nights.

Good lighting remains one of the simplest and most effective security measures around any property.

Test Security Systems

Winter weather can affect outdoor sensors, beams, alarms, and panic buttons.

Therefore, it is important to test all security equipment regularly and ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Inspect Cameras

Rain, mist, shifting light conditions, and overgrown gardens can affect camera visibility more than many people realise.

In addition, cameras should be cleaned after bad weather.

Sea air, rain residue, and spider webs can reduce visibility or trigger unnecessary activations.

Review Everyday Habits

People often leave gates, garages, or vehicles unsecured while rushing inside out of the cold or rain.

Furthermore, keys should always be kept out of sight and away from doors, windows, and entrance tables.

Small habits can make a significant difference to overall home security.

Check Gates And Outdoor Equipment

After storms, clear leaves, sand, and debris from gate tracks.

Otherwise, gates may fail to close properly without homeowners noticing.

Additionally, tools and ladders should be packed away and secured. Items left outside can potentially be used to gain access to a property.

Prepare For Power Outages

Winter often exposes alarm and gate batteries that are no longer holding charge properly.

For this reason, backup batteries should be tested before they are needed during an outage.

If You Are Travelling

If you are away from home, avoid creating the appearance of an unattended property.

Bins left outside, curtains remaining closed all day, and a lack of lighting can quickly indicate that nobody is home.

Finally, make sure your emergency and keyholder details are up to date and that your security company has the correct contact information.

Winter Preparedness Matters

A few simple checks today can help prevent much larger problems later.

Ultimately, winter security is about preparation, awareness, and maintaining the systems that help keep homes and families safe throughout the colder months.

Stay warm and stay safe this winter.

Source: Calibre Security

Read more: Sinkhole Opens Near Humansdorp As Major Rain System Approaches

Sinkhole Opens Near Humansdorp As Major Rain System Approaches

by SFT | Jun 2, 2026 | St Francis

HUMANSDORP – A sinkhole has opened alongside the R102 near Boskloof, prompting lane closures and an urgent response from the Provincial Department of Roads just as a major rain system prepares to move into the Eastern Cape.

The timing has raised concerns that heavy rainfall forecast for later this week could worsen the damage and complicate repair efforts on one of the region’s important transport routes.

Incoming Rain Adds To Concerns

The South African Weather Service has already warned of disruptive rainfall across large parts of the Eastern Cape from Wednesday into Thursday.

Consequently, attention is turning to roads, bridges and drainage infrastructure that could come under pressure during the weather event.

While officials are still assessing the sinkhole, heavy rain has the potential to increase erosion. This could place additional strain on already weakened ground.

As a result, authorities are keen to evaluate the site and implement any necessary safety measures as quickly as possible.

Traffic Restrictions In Place

Temporary traffic control measures have been introduced at the affected section of the R102.

Traffic continues to move through the area. However, motorists should expect reduced speeds and possible delays.

Furthermore, drivers are encouraged to follow all temporary signage and instructions from traffic officials.

The route is widely used by commuters, residents and visitors travelling between Humansdorp and surrounding areas. Therefore, authorities are urging motorists to remain patient while investigations continue.

Roads Department Responds

According to Kouga Municipality, the Provincial Department of Roads has been informed of the situation and is treating the matter as a priority.

Resources have already been dispatched to the scene.

Officials will now assess the extent of the damage and determine what work may be required to stabilise the area and protect the roadway.

Meanwhile, municipal officials remain in contact with the relevant provincial authorities.

Monitoring Continues

Kouga Municipality says it will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as further information becomes available.

The municipality has also thanked residents and motorists for their cooperation.

For now, the message is straightforward. Approach the area with caution, and allow extra travel time. Remain aware of changing conditions.

With a significant rain system approaching the region, the next few days could prove important in determining the extent of the damage and the repairs that may follow.

Read more: Flood-Weary Kouga Braces for Another Major Rain Event