Ever heard the saying, “more money more problems?” Once you have some serious wealth behind you, there are certain things that you must start thinking about in terms of personal security.
Those with substantial wealth can never be too careful when dealing with themselves, their family or their assets. With kidnapping on the rise and the disparity between the wealthy and the poor ever-growing, there are more and more people prepared to go to extreme lengths to acquire what is rightfully yours.
Take no chances and read these personal security tips for the wealthy, to ensure you are as safe as can be from any potential dangers.
1. Buy a Guard Dog
The larger the house, the larger the security around it. Buying a guard dog for your home is a great way to ensure the first layer of defence around your property. So long as the dog is well trained and the right breed, then you can be sure that if anything outside does not feel or seem right, your dog will let you know. For security conscious people, a guard dog can be a valuable asset as well as a loyal pet, thus a win-win situation, as long as you are not allergic to dogs!
The breeds of dog that would be suitable for guard purposes include Bullmastiff, Giant Schnauzer, Doberman Pinscher, Akita, Staffordshire, Bull Terrier, German Shepherd, and Rottweiler.
2. Change Your Routine/Pattern Behaviour
Kidnapping as a business is on the rise globally. Especially in countries with less-than-honest law and order in them. Going to-and-from your house and car is where you may be the most exposed to potential external threats.
If you are being followed, then changing your routine through the times you leave your house and the route you drive to work may just save your life. Your routine could be what puts you most in danger when outside of your property, so mix it up and keep them guessing.
3. Get a Good Security System
Homes without a professional security system are 2.7 times more likely to be targeted or burgled. Thus, the presence of obviously placed camera equipment alone should deter the most skittish of thieves or kidnappers.
Good quality security systems are installed with up to date warning systems to alert you of an intruder. The warning alarm will also automatically contact the local authorities whilst giving the occupants of the house enough time to get out of the house or to a safe room.
4. Vet Your Staff Before Hiring
If you own a large property, then it requires a lot of upkeep to keep it looking pristine and showroom-worthy.
The pool needs maintenance, as does the garden, the cars require washing, the house needs cleaning and the chores will not do themselves. Hiring staff for the house is a natural step in any wealthy person’s life, as is buying a large house and nice cars. Make sure you use a trusted company specialised in dealing with higher-end clients who background check their staff thoroughly.
5. Dress Below Your Paycheck
Making it as obvious as you can that you own money may not be the smartest idea. Dressing nicely but not extravagantly is the best way to wear your clothes, as draping yourself in jewellery and designer clothes when popping down to the shop to buy some milk is not advisable.
I’m not saying to dress like a homeless person by any means, but maybe safe the high-end designer clothes and jewellery for appropriate occasions such a dinner parties and events with added security.
6. Hire a Bodyguard
Kidnapping is on the rise, so what’s the best way to prevent it? By hiring your own personal security. Hiring a bodyguard or security guards for your day to day life may be a little extreme (or maybe not, depending on your profile in the public eye).
If you are wealthy and not famous, then hiring extra security may be necessary only for special occasions such as galas and evening events in which you and your family will wearing designer clothing, lots of jewellery or carrying lots of cash.
Ensure that personal security is fully vetted and have the proper training, so they are able to protect you if the need arises. Ray Mason of Centurion Guards, a security company in London says it is important that your bodyguards not only look the part but will see and deal with any threats.
7. Install a Panic Alarm
A panic alarm is for the last resort, Alamo kind of situation. Intruders have penetrated your security system and are on your property or inside your house. Panic alarms send a signal directly to local law enforcement agencies, notifying them of the attack or intrusion.
If you have no time to make your escape, then a panic alarm may be your last chance at survival and the difference between life and death.
8. Intercom System
Once your house is of a certain size, then a gate is very much a necessity, and as soon as a gate is needed, then so is an intercom system.
The camera and audio technology allow you to hear and see the person calling before letting them inside. This lets the homeowner stay safely inside the property and the visitor outside. If you do not know the person, then you simply do not open the gate.
Some of these measures may seem extreme, but you can never be too careful now that you are wealthy. Many people are jealous and will go to extreme lengths to get what you have. Be safe and take no chances.
