Fidelity ADT has urged residents in Noordwyk to remain vigilant following a spate of house burglaries in the area, with three incidents recently reported in a single day.

Charnel Hattingh, Fidelity Services Group marketing and communication group head, said criminals are not necessarily waiting until nightfall to target residential properties.

“Homes can be monitored during the day, with suspects potentially observing residents’ movements and routines before identifying when a property is likely to be unoccupied.”

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Hattingh said observations from security teams indicate that individuals acting as potential spotters may be monitoring properties and establishing patterns, including when residents leave for work, school runs, shopping or other regular daily activities.

While homeowners often associate residential security risks with the evening and overnight hours, daytime can present significant opportunities for criminals when they know a property is empty.

“Residents should be mindful that predictable routines can make it easier for criminals to determine when a home is likely to be unoccupied. When multiple properties are targeted within a short period, it serves as an important reminder that residential security needs to be proactive rather than reactive,” Hattingh explained.

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“A layered security approach can make a significant difference in reducing the risk of house burglaries. Reliable security measures should be combined with awareness of your surroundings, vigilance and communication with neighbours.

The more difficult we make it for criminals to predict our movements and access our properties, the better positioned we are to protect our homes.”

Fidelity security measures residents can consider:

• Vary your daily routine where possible, particularly when leaving and arriving home.
• Stay alert to unfamiliar people or vehicles loitering in your neighbourhood or near your property.
• Keep gates and access points secured, even during the day.
• Arm your alarm when leaving, even for short periods. Consider arming your system when you are at home if your system allows for this.
• Check your camera coverage to ensure entrances, driveways and other vulnerable areas are monitored.
• Trim and maintain shrubs and plants to eliminate potential hiding places around your property.
• Avoid advertising that your home is empty, particularly on social media platforms.
• Report suspicious activity immediately to your security provider or SAPS.

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