Change in weather sees change in Brakpan crime patterns
As it heats up, you might be tempted to sleep with windows and doors open. This is an invitation to criminals.
Brakpan police remind the public about safety practices and urge them to always be mindful of crime and know that when the seasons change, crime patterns also shift.
According to Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 manager and corporate communications officer, the arrival of spring and warmer weather has heralded a change in the crime overview within the precinct with some crimes picking up, and others showing a significant decrease.
“The CBD, Brakpan North, Anzac, Brenthurst and Dalpark are current problematic areas with hijackings, business and house robberies, and theft of and from motor vehicles as trending criminal activities,” she said.
“The SAPS pleads with community members to wise up and take charge of their neighbourhoods by standing together and fighting crime.
“Street patrols are still very much encouraged. Know your surroundings, greet and know your neighbours, have emergency contacts within reach, upgrade your home security, and liaise with your security company on a regular basis to ensure effective responses.”
ALSO READ: Another successful round on the green for senior ladies
Buthelezi provided the following tips:
• Look out for criminal markings on your property. Adequate lighting on premises is advantageous. Do not place or display items in your front yard that will attract criminal eyes.
• Stay alert and look for suspicious-looking vehicles or persons around you and report such immediately.
• Do not to allow strangers into your home. Robbers often pose as delivery men, repairmen, electricians, plumbers, TV licence or municipality inspectors and many other professions. Verify their identity before allowing access.
• Parents should teach their children safety tips and make sure children know what to do and whom to contact in cases of emergency.
“Criminals are becoming more technologically advanced, and they also change with the times. Let them find you ready and alert,” added Buthelezi.
Report criminal activities to Brakpan police on 011 744 4111 or 082 10111.
ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni’s first university to break ground in Boksburg next year
