As the festive season approaches, opportunistic criminals also start their ‘festive shopping’. This spreads to businesses, homes and vehicles and it is imperative that residents be vigilant, safeguard their assets and minimise the opportunity for criminals.

Here are a few tips from police spokesperson Warrant Officer Basheer Ahmed Khan:

Residents can limit the opportunity for these crimes and make themselves a harder target for such criminal activity by implementing safety awareness at home:-

A high fence around the house with lockable gates is much safer than a high wall due to the advantage of the improved visibility it provides. The primary aim of the fence is to make access/intrusion difficult and to allow dogs to move freely around the house.

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Ensure that your gates are locked at all times and that the keys cannot be reached easily and are not lying around uncontrolled. Insert barring devices in door locks and remove keys from doors when leaving. Security gates with sturdy locks in front of each outer door, including sliding doors, as well as burglar proofing covering all windows, are recommended. Critically evaluate your security at your home – the more effort it takes and the harder it is to break into your home, the less appealing your home becomes to criminal elements.

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Security lights on the outside of the house improve the physical protection of a house, farm or smallholding. The lights must be directed away from the house and must allow the occupants to use the windows without being observed from outside. Be aware of possible shadows and blind spots. Ensure that all doors are locked at all times.

Large dogs serve as a deterrent. At least one dog should be trained to sleep inside the house. Vary your daily routine and be aware of the fact that someone may be watching your sleep patterns and movement.

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If you know your neighbour is out for the day or evening, you can help by casting an eye over the property every now and again. If you spot anything out of place inform the South African Police Service.

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Crime Stop: 08600 10111 (Use this number where you wish to give information about a crime that is being planned or if you have information about a crime that has already happened. Information about the movement and market for stolen property is included here. This line is confidential). SAPS emergency line: 10111.

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