Criminals target businesses in CBD
"These weaknesses include windows that have been left open or broken, alarms that were not armed and unlocked doors..."
Negligence and irresponsible behaviour on the part of business owner and employees resulted in numerous burglaries at business premises this past week. According to Vernon Lancaster of Hi-Tech Security Nelspruit, would-be criminals stalk the CBD in search of potential weaknesses in their defences.
“These weaknesses include windows that have been left open or broken, alarms that were not armed and unlocked doors,” Lancaster said. “This weekend we have had laptops and computer screens stolen through windows that were left ajar at close of business. If criminals use the fishing method to scoop electronic goods through windows it increases their chances of not triggering an alarm. Therefor the onus lies on the employees and business owners to make sure the buildings are locked up securely before everyone leaves the offices.”
Lancaster also warned that offices should preferably not have electronic equipment situated in front of windows as it makes smash and grab operations very easy for criminals to execute. He further advised that all internal office doors should be locked at night. “If burglars to make it into the office building, locked internal doors will slow them down and possibly prevent further loss of property as it gives our response teams those valuable extra minutes to arrive on the scene and make an arrest.”
Safety tips for the Office:
• Always make sure all windows and doors are locked before leaving the office.
• Never leave laptops lying on desks close to windows – keep small electronic items locked in a safe.
• Never leave valuables in full view of would-be thieves, keep personal items in your drawer or safe.
• Remember to always activate the alarm system before exiting the building.
• Enforce rules at your business that prevent clients or visitors from wearing hats when entering your office.
• Install burglar bars at all windows if possible as this acts as a deterrent to would-be thieves.
Weekly Safety Tip for your home:
• A family password is a a good idea – as your children go to school, you may need to send a friend to pick them up when you are unable to – train your children to demand a password before allowing themselves to be picked up by anyone other than Mommy or Daddy. Unless the password is given, they should yell, make a scene, and seek out a teacher or policeman. This password can be something as simple as a favourite sports team or movie title, but it will comfort your child knowing that they are safe, and will comfort you knowing that they won’t allow themselves to be kidnapped without causing a fuss.
