Security

Security is a big deal to Paulistas, the crime rate is very high.

I wanted to post some of the ways that homes and other locations are protected.

This security wall has hanging plants, which certainly dresses it up a bit

Many neighborhoods have these small booths. Usually with electricity for a TV or something but not bathroom. They pay a guy to sit here and guard the neighborhood. He also usually sweeps the sidewalks each morning

A well designed gate in a nicer area

Another secure gate

Very common to see several strands of electrical wire above the wall or fence. They are not kidding

It is not a very welcome front with this security wall

Diagonal metal gate with electrical fence above. Nice rock work - this is less common as graffiti is everywhere and this is harder to clean and you cannot paint over it without ruining the look

Want a piece of us?

This is a metal gate which has this pop-out feature to accommodate the car which is larger than the space available. We have also seen this adaptation frequently

Very common at businesses, medical offices etc. A receptionist where you show ID. They will copy the information and take your photograph.

You are the admitted through the turnstile sometimes with an electronic card to use when you exit

This is the security wall around Vertentes

The entry. There are four of these although this is the official entry. The others are very non-descript and all have guards in addition one or two are usually roaming around 

I do not know the name but this stiff, thorny bush is common where they want to discourage someone to try entering uninvited

High wall topped with broken glass and electrical wire. Burglars probably try another place

Very high wall 

This is a house. Not an easy approach to break in

I like this door.

Most lack side glass, I imagine that it is too easy to break out the glass

Want to try this one?

Wealthy neighborhood. This is a personal guard station at the house

Think that he sees us?

This is a padaria or bakery. You pull out an electronic plastic card on the right as you enter. Everything you eat in the store is recorded on the card. You must produce the card and pay to exit on the left