High perimeter walls, electric fences and security systems aim to protect properties from uninvited guests, but even well-fortified homes can fall victim to burglaries.

To help residents lower their risk of being targeted by criminals, the West Rand Flying Squad released practical crime prevention measures.

Spokesperson Karen du Plessis outlined key steps to secure residential properties:

• Stay vigilant: Residents should remain alert and watch for suspicious individuals and vehicles around their neighbourhood.
• Upgrade physical barriers: Installing physical security measures, such as security gates on exterior doors and burglar bars on windows, helps fortify homes.
• Engage neighbours: When leaving for extended periods, such as going on holiday, residents should ask trusted neighbours to keep an eye on the property.
• Restrict entry: Homeowners must refrain from opening doors or gates for unknown individuals.
• Verify credentials: Before employing workers or allowing contractors onto the property, residents must verify their identity and authenticate their business credentials.