Linden SAPS crime prevention tips

Linden Police have issued the following tips for preventing housebreaking and theft:

· Know all emergency numbers.

· Keep your cellphone in the bedroom.

· Never leave keys in a gate or lock.

· The locks on outside doors should be changed when you move into a new home or after keys have been lost or stolen.

· Make provision for good outside lighting. Remember, outside lights that are on during the day draw the attention of thieves.

· Mail left in the gate is also a sign that nobody is home. Get a friend or neighbour to regularly keep an eye on your property and to remove mail and newspapers.

· Use lighting to your advantage

· Lights that are on inside while it is dark outside put to you a disadvantage.

· Lights that are on the outside when it is dark inside allow you to observe what is going on outside without being seen.

· Curtains should be closed after dark to prevent suspects from seeing inside the home.

· Never leave workers or contractors unattended in your home.

· Do not leave ladders standing around.

· Conducts thorough background checks before employing anyone (permanent or casual workers). Request their identity document and make a copy for safekeeping. Check their references and do security clearances at the police station.

· Be careful what is discussed in front of staff.

· Don’t leave a garage, front or back door open or partially open – it serves as an invitation for burglars.

· Inform police of any suspicious characters who you consider may pose a threat.

Tips for preventing robbery at a business premises:

· Employ surveillance cameras strategically and implement some form of entrance and exit control. Make sure persons can be clearly identified by cameras as the video footage assists SAPS.

· Keep premises well-illuminated inside and outside.

· Take special precautionary measures at opening and closing times. Ensure that two or more staff members can be present when the premises is being looked or unlocked.

· Place static panic buttons in strategic areas of your store.