HOUSEBREAKING and theft in six Kempton Park suburbs have shown an increase in the past month, while two are also plagued by armed robberies.
This is according to Theunis Kotze, general manager of the ADT Inland Region.
Suburbs which show an increase in housebreaking and theft are Norkem Park, Birch Acres, Terenure, Esther Park, Glen Marais and Nimrod Park. Armed robberies also occurred in Esther Park and Glen Marais.
“Criminals are aware that suburbs are largely deserted during the day, as most people are at work. They act either because they’ve staked out a specific house or they simply commit a crime of opportunity,” Kotze said.
“What concerns us is that many people don’t arm their alarm systems when they leave home and we still come across properties where gates are left open.”
Perimeter security is the first layer of defence, according to ADT. Homeowners need to ensure their gates are secure at all times and can’t be lifted off the rails. The entire perimeter of the property should be checked regularly for weaknesses.
Security tips from ADT
• Arm your alarm whenever you leave your home and when you go to bed.
• Close windows and check all doors are locked when you leave home.
• Secure your perimeter at all times.
• Activate outdoor detection.
• Lock all garden, leisure and other equipment away when not in use.
• Be extra vigilant when leaving and arriving home. If you notice anything or anyone suspicious, don’t turn into your driveway.
• Never allow strangers onto your property, no matter what they say their business is. Ensure your domestic staff know this rule.
• Carry a remote panic at all times when you’re at home and equip your domestic staff with panics.
• Report anything suspicious to the police or your security provider immediately.
