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Christopher Dobson

In these days of heightened security concerns, feeling safe in your own home is more important than ever. Putting a price on the value of that peace of mind is hard to quantify, but increasingly sought after in all levels of society.

Terrorist attacks, rising crime rates and a lack of respect for other people's property is of concern  around the world.

For those whose work takes them away from home to an overseas posting, living in a secure environment is vital.

Hong Kong  is not considered a hardship posting for expat professionals as  it is one of the safest cities in the world. But relying on the police force is not enough for the operators of the city's growing number of serviced apartments, where many foreigners choose to live during their time here.

Even though the Harbour Plaza Resort City in Tin Shui Wai is far from the CBD, security is still a major concern for the management there.

'Security is of paramount importance at the Harbour Plaza Resort City,' said general manager Stephen Chu. 'Our 24-hour team is made up of dedicated staff, including ex-British Gurkha military officers. Besides patrolling, the security team has regular training in first aid and emergency handling.'

With this level of security  in place, the facility could easily be forgiven for being complacent. But that is not the case, as Mr Chu explained. 'Each month there are 'mock' situations which are sprung on the team to monitor their response time and professional handling,' he said.  'Our serviced suite guests are always encouraged to contact the guest services manager, concierge, or security staff if they see or hear of any suspicious incidents.'

Mr Chu said a neighbourhood watch scheme was also in place. This, in turn, was  complemented by a range of hi-tech surveillance gadgets that were part and parcel of the modern security measures  found in many private establishments.

The ubiquitous closed circuit television cameras form a key part of the monitoring network, although the placement of the devices has been carried out judiciously, with tenants' privacy a key factor.

The general manager said the overall security operation, from cameras to guards, had been designed to be as unobtrusive and out of sight as possible.

'While the security is carried out in an overt manner, it is done in a way that does not disturb the privacy of our guests,' he said, adding that the company adhered to the government's Privacy Ordinance.

'Security is our top priority, but it is done with friendliness and hospitality in mind.'

With this work ethic, the security team is responsible for much more than just looking after security. Apart from patrolling, they manage the shuttle bus ticketing, valet parking and greet guests.

'Being frontline staff, we encourage the development of friendly relations with our guests,' Mr Chu said. While there have not been any serious security problems at the property, diligence and preparedness are crucial to maintaining the status quo.

To this end, the security team has forged a strong relationship with the Tin Shui Wai police and fire departments, and holds regular combined drills and 'mock' challenges at the complex.

Even smaller, more manageable properties take security  as seriously.

Vivien Chan, managing director of the 48-room VServiced Apartments in Happy Valley, said security was 'taken as a given'  at all times.

Even with 24-hour security and regular patrols by uniformed guards, access to the property was controlled.

And feeling safe in bed at night at the V Serviced Apartments is only one aspect of a softer approach to security.

Ms Chan said guests should feel comfortable, and this came from where the apartments were situated.

'As with all real estate, location is key, and we choose locations that are safe homes for our tenants' she explained, adding that V Happy Valley was located next to the Happy Valley police station.



Security offers peace of mind