AS the winter season arrives, criminals temporarily relocate to areas with warmer temperatures, says SAPS's Captain Louise Le Roux.
She said it is normal behaviour for mankind to sleep deeper during the winter, as we snuggle up under blankets and use heaters to create warmth. We also tend to rush to our car, and into our homes to escape the cold, thus our vigilance of our surroundings decreases.
“Taking into account an influx of visitors expected as families have already commenced their winter vacation, choosing areas with tropical weather and beaches as their holiday destination, criminals prey on these facts, and therefore an increase of crime can be expected over the pre-winter and actual vacation period,” she said.
Capt Le Roux said a pro-active initiative was launched by SAPS Brighton Beach to counter the influx of expected criminal activities; a brochure awareness campaign was hosted, with the purpose being to re-condition residents and visitors on ways to protect themselves, loved-ones and their belongings.
Some safety guides were shared on general safety, encouraging residents to store emergency numbers under their contact list using A for easier access, for example A1 should be the command centre of your security company, A2 your closest police station/10111, and A3your neighbour you have made arrangements with who can assist you in an emergency.
“When you are under distress you do not have time to scroll down a contact list looking for numbers. You can also add other emergency services numbers such as ambulance services, fire department and so on under your A contact list by just numbering them,” she said.
She urged people not to talk or text on their mobile device when they are in motion – on foot or driving in the car.
“When making withdrawals from an ATM look around you before making the transaction use your body as a shield when conducting the transaction and no not accept help from anybody. Place the cash in your wallet before leave the ATM or banking hall,” she said.
When travelling, face your vehicle when activating your vehicle alarm system ensuring that you view the doors locking and that your indicator confirms activation. Do not leave valuables inside your vehicle in plain sight, such as sunglasses, identification documents, mobile phones, jewellery or items that might attract criminals.
“When exiting a shopping mall make time to look behind you, to ensure you are not being followed. Remove your vehicle keys from your handbag or pants prior to arrival at your vehicle. Do not fidget for your keys upon arrival at your vehicle. Upon entering your vehicle ensure you immediately lock the door. If you suspect you are being followed travel to the nearest public place or police station if you know the location,” she said.
If you do have the services of a security company, ensure your alarm system is fully functional for activation purposes and is regularly serviced.
“Before retiring for the night again ensure security features are used appropriately. Do not tie your dog up. Let him or her have freedom to move, remember your dog is your first line of defence. Never investigate noises or movements. Phone 10111, and if you have the services of a security company activate your panic alarm. Also ensure that all occupants of the home know the whereabouts of the panic alarm devices in the home, including roaming devices,” she said.
