Estate Living Magazine Smart Moves - Issue 38 February 2019 | Page 46

C O M M U N I T Y
Access control systems include a device, reader, controller and
security barrier. The access control device is read by a reader. The
reader sends the device number to a controller. The controller
makes a decision whether to allow access and sends a signal to the
gate or door for it to open. These may be stand-alone for each entry,
or can be integrated to run from a single database.
Vehicle access control systems fall into four categories: attended,
automated (unattended), open access, or some combination
of these three. The type of system that is appropriate for your
community depends on what you would like to accomplish. The
type of access control device is chosen based on who is going to
use the device and the type of access point that the community
wants to control. There will usually be different lanes for residents
and visitors, with different systems, usually automated for residents
and attended for visitors.
Pedestrian access control can be by the use of keys, keypads,
access cards, photo ID.
L I V I N G
Checklist: Tips on securing your community
• Analyse your community as a whole – include both the
surrounding communities and the community association.
• Conduct an annual safety survey.
• Call a security meeting with the members.
• Point out effective interior security measures, in meetings
and in newsletter articles.
• Conduct daily or weekly tours of the property, both on foot
and by car.
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Check street lighting nightly.
Communicate with neighbouring properties.
Review your use of exterior lighting.
Control access into the community association, by limiting
the number of entrance areas, or via gates.
• Use effective landscaping and maintenance measures.
• Establish a neighbourhood watch programme, including
an out-of-town watch programme and regular member
recognition for their participation.
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