Barb wire fences and razor wire fences were used to keep domestic and wild animals within areas designated for them. The farmer needed his sheep and cows to remain on his land, and keep his neighbour’s animals separate from his own. The wild animal farmer needed high fences to keep his antelope inside, and hopefully, the poacher out.
Police officers use quick roll-out barbed wires for crowd control during riots or to keep people out of areas that are deemed unsafe after natural disasters have occurred. In South Africa there not many naturally occurring disasters like earth quakes, and yet the barb wire fence has invaded our living spaces all over the country.
Often installed as part of palisade fencing or electric fencing, the barb wire has become a security option for many plagued by domestic criminal activity. The barb wire and razor wire fence can be a very effective means of keeping intruders away, but they should not be relied upon to do so. Strong materials such as rubber mats or thick blankets have often be found where thieves or other criminals have climbed over the fence without hurting themselves. Although it might the potential criminal think twice before climbing the barb wire fence, it will not stop him if determined to do so.
The razor wire fence, although so called, actually do not have razor sharp blades on the wire. The blades are more likely to ‘grab’ or hook into clothing and skin, than causing real injuries. This is still painful and effective as a security measure.
Barb and razor wires should always be installed away from easy access by children and pets, as injuries could easily occur. Clothing and pet fur can be hooked and any struggle to pull away may cause further or more serious injuries as more barbs get hooked. The wires are surface treated but not painted, and rust and other accumulated dirt can be the cause for bad infections even in small cuts and other minor injuries.
These fences require special tools, and professionals should hired to do the installation securely.
