When a celebrity home invasion made headlines for several months, it became all the more evident that when it comes to where we live, security is something, that we just can’t afford to overlook. Whether you’re in a stand-alone high-rise or a gated community, taking steps to keep our loved ones safe, especially the vulnerable kids and senior citizens, should be a no-brainer. In today’s world, threats can come from anywhere, so a solid security system isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential.
Wake-up call
If a celebrity with all the resources in the world can get their home broken into, it really makes you stop and think, right? Just how easy is it for someone to get in? This is all the more relevant in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), where often there are instances when we hardly know or interact with our neighbours. Alternatively, occupants staying on rent keep moving in and out at periodic intervals so it’s hard to keep track of strangers.
Walk-in privileges
Have you ever wondered how easy it would be for someone to just walk into your building, someone being on their phone, talking loudly, and just waltzing in? It happens more often than we think, and it’s a huge problem. Societies with a single ‘watchman’ really need to think about this. We shouldn’t be letting anyone just stroll in—especially if they don’t belong. Security needs to be tight, and people coming in should be verified, whether that’s through ID checks or logs that show who’s visiting.
First defence
Think about your building’s lobby and elevators. These are the first points where outsiders meet your home, so they need the best security, take photo IDs for all visitors, and confirmation from residents before anyone gets in. Yeah, it might feel like an extra step, especially in busy buildings, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Know everyone
Let’s not forget about the people who live there too. Have the photo ID checks for everyone, even residents, and especially domestic staff—maids, cooks, drivers, etc. Sure, it sounds like a hassle, but it adds a lot of peace of mind knowing that everyone in your building has been verified properly.
Residence proof
For everyone living or working in the building, make sure there’s a record of who they are. Things like an Aadhar card and Ration Card with proof of address should be collected and stored. It’s just good sense, as one needs to know who’s in there building at all times. Plus, if anything happens, one has got a way to trace things back and verify people. Simple but really effective.
Smart tech
We’re in the age of technology, so why not use it to make our security even better? A simple video door phone and cameras that connect to your mobile phone can make a huge difference. That way, you can see who’s at your door before you open it. Add in some safety doors with grills to handle deliveries, and you’ve got an extra layer of protection. Small tech fixes that can make a huge difference.
Laundry collection
Even things like laundry collection need to be part of the security picture. No one should be coming inside past the safety door. Simple as that. We don’t want anyone sneaking into the apartment when we’re not around, and by sticking to a rule like this, you eliminate that risk entirely.
Most vulnerable
We also need to think about the most vulnerable people—kids and older adults, especially when they’re home alone. Security cameras linked to your phone are perfect for checking in on them. Whether it’s making sure a kid’s safe after school or checking in on a senior parent, these cameras can give you peace of mind.
Emergency access
Emergencies happen, and sometimes you need to get in fast. Mobile-activated security systems that let you unlock doors remotely are a lifesaver. Whether someone’s locked out or in an emergency, it’s great to know that help is just a tap away.
An investment
Too often, we treat security like an afterthought—something that’s nice to have but not really necessary. But honestly, security should be one of the most important investments we make in where we live. It’s not something you should cut corners on. And remember: the security staff should be focused on their job, not doing errands or other tasks. If they’re distracted, they might miss something important.
At the end of the day, security is something that can’t be overlooked. Your home should be a safe place—a sanctuary where you feel secure and at peace. So, let’s start thinking about security as something we can constantly improve, ensuring that we create the safest living space for ourselves and our families.
The writer is a self-made businesswoman, philanthropist, psychologist, fitness enthusiast, author, environmentalist, passionate culinarian, and a global advocate for women, girls, and human rights, with a keen interest in real estate, business innovation, and women’s empowerment.
