Prevent house robberies and housebreakings

Honeydew Police have issued the following tips to prevent house robberies and housebreakings:

• Know all emergency numbers (see previous article).

• Have good outside lighting, but switch the lights off during the day.

• Don’t leave your gates, garage, front or back door even partially open as it invites burglars to enter.
• Do not open the door automatically whenever the bell rings or someone knocks.

• A watchdog is a good early warning system. Keep a dog visible as a deterrent but beyond the reach of strangers.

• If your house alarm goes off, you hear strange noises or your dog barks, switch on the outside lights but do not go outside.

• When employing someone, request their identity document and make a copy of it. Check their previous employment references and do security clearances with the police.

• Install the best security you can afford for example, a security gate at outside doors. If possible, install a door viewer and latch chain.

• When approaching your house entrance, ensure that it is safe to enter and you have not been followed. Be aware of people loitering nearby.

• Always keep your house keys safe to prevent duplication of them. Never leave your keys under a doormat or in a pot plant. Once you have locked your door from the inside, remove the keys and keep them in a safe place.

• Know your neighbours and build a relationship of mutual trust and support.

• Arrange with neighbours to always be ready to come to the rescue of people in a dangerous or suspicious situation. Exchange phone numbers or signaling methods for such situations.

• If you buy luxury goods, cut up the boxes and dispose of them in tied black bags. A branded box tells thieves what they could find in your house.

• Keep cash and valuables in banks or safes.

• Keep firearms in safes.

Details: Honeydew Police 011 801 8613.