Gillitts meets and greets guardian angels

GILLITTS residents were introduced to different emergency and security services who are linked to the civilian patrol groups and which work together to keep the community safe.

This event was organised by the Gillitts Park Community Association and held at the Gillitts Park.

Chairman of the association Jill Clark said, “We saw this as an ideal opportunity to market our own neighbourhood watch and patrol team, as well as those of our neighbouring communities.

“We felt that it was important to create an opportunity to give the patrollers some recognition. Most members of the public don’t realise that these people are volunteers who are prepared to dedicate many hours and the cost of their own fuel to patrol the streets of our areas while we are sleeping and relaxing.

“These community patrol groups really have made a significant difference in the levels of crime in the Upper Highway. “They are recognised as significant support to the SAPS in terms of being a visible presence and intelligent eyes and ears on the ground.

SAPS Shongweni Canine Unit gave an impressive demonstration. It started off by showing the obedience of their dogs, then how effective the dogs were in apprehending suspects.

They completed their demonstration by showing a simulated hijacking where someone was “shot” and the effectiveness of their response. This allowed the medical emergency services to show how they respond and treat victims.

Security companies, Blue and Enforce supplied free wors rolls to everyone. They also took the opportunity to display the special services they offer in their “special project” areas which Gillitts Park is part of.

Clark thanked everyone who came through on Saturday; SAPS, both the canine unit and Hillcrest Station, Metro Police, CEMS, VEMA, ER24, Netcare 911 and RescueTech. The patrol teams from Hillcrest Neighbourhood Watch, Gillitts 2 CPF Sub forum, Kloof CPF, Westriding Neighbourhood Watch and SACAN were also well represented.

“We would also like to thank councillors, Rick Crouch and Tex Collin, as well as Alan Smaldon, chairman of COWRA, who took time out to come along and support the event. Your presence was really appreciated, thank you,” said Clark.

Ward 10 councillor Rick Crouch said, he and his family attended the Gillitts Park security event.

“As usual the event put together by Jill Clark and her Gillitts Park team was a big success. There were numerous neighbourhood residents attending. The highlight for most, especially the children, were the demonstrations by SAPS, Metro and the Dog Squad. Well done to Jill Clark and her team. We thoroughly enjoyed the day,” said Crouch.

You can view our event gallery here.