Residents Action Group warns of crime increase over Easter

Crime tends to rise during holidays and long weekends.

The security non-profit organisation, Residents Action Group (RAG), has warned of an increase in crime in the lead-up to this month’s public holidays and urges residents to remain vigilant and security-conscious throughout the Easter period.

RAG’s general manager, Mark Morris, reported that RAG Security has responded to three house robberies in Bedfordview over the past three weeks.

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“Two of these occurred in street closures. In one incident, the criminals gained entry through an open window, while in another, they accessed the property from the rear of a road closure.

“Residents must never become complacent about security, even in complexes and boomed-off areas,” stated Morris.

Adding that criminals often seek out the weakest access points, which may not be the front of a property or complex but rather an unsecured back wall, a vacant stand, or an adjacent open space.

“Examine your property and street closure carefully, identifying potential weak spots,” he advised.

He encouraged residents, street closures, residents’ associations, and complexes to invest in AI-powered security cameras to monitor vulnerable dead spots where activity is minimal, making it easier for criminals to enter undetected.

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Beware of inside jobs
RAG has also noted a rise in inside jobs and urges residents never to discuss their valuables in front of employees.

Background and security checks should always be conducted before hiring domestic workers.

“This is crucial for your family’s safety. Always keep a copy of your domestic staff’s identification documents and maintain records of their address, contact details, and next of kin,” Morris said.

Essential security tips for the holidays

Residents are advised to follow these RAG security guidelines to stay safe during the Easter break:

• Report any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activity to your security service provider immediately

• Stay vigilant, whether at home or on the road.

Be particularly alert when driving home from shopping centres or outings, especially when entering your property.

Ensure you are not being followed.

• Invest in reliable security measures and use them!

A monitored alarm system linked to a reputable security provider, such as RAG, is one of the most effective deterrents.

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• Secure your gate.

Ensure it cannot be lifted off its rails.

Consider installing a device like the RAG Gate Guardian, which alerts security to gate tampering.

• Activate outdoor security beams early each evening, even when entertaining on your patio.

Guests do not deter criminals, and social gatherings with frequent gate activity can attract opportunists.

• Always set your alarm at night and whenever you leave the house.

Going away? Use this RAG checklist to secure your home

If you are travelling, ensure your home is properly secured with this checklist:

• Arrange for someone reliable to check on your home.

Provide them with your contact details and those of your security provider. Give them a key so they can collect post or enter in case of an emergency.

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• Keep valuables out of sight.

Laptops and other high-value items should not be visible from windows.

• Ensure all windows and doors are properly closed, locked, and secured.

• Avoid leaving signs that your home is unoccupied.

Do not leave rubbish bins or recycling out or washing on the line.

• Test your security system.

Ensure alarms, beams, panic buttons, gate motors, and cameras are functioning correctly.

• Inspect your electric fence.

Trim any overhanging branches or foliage that could interfere with it.

• Do not share holiday plans with strangers.

Avoid posting details of your departure dates or location on social media.

• Activate your alarm before leaving.

For enquiries, please contact security@bedfordviewrag.co.za.