It’s the festive season and unfortunately the only ones not taking a break are criminals.

Mapogo Security wanted to give some tips on how to be safe in your house if you are staying in Randfontein over Christmas.

“People need to start being more vigilant when it comes to the safety of their homes. We have reacted to too many incidents where doors were not locked or alarm systems were not present or activated. It is time for people to realize we live in a crime ridden country and we are just making it easy for criminals,” Gerald King, Managing Director of Mapogo said.

Tips for home safety:

• Always lock perimeter doors and close windows that are far away from where the family activity is centred. At night especially you must always lock perimeter doors and securely fasten windows. When retiring to bed, lock inter-leading doors of the rooms that are not occupied.
• Do not leave curtains open at night as this allows observation into the house. Do not go outside alone to investigate at night, rather switch off all lights and open curtains to allow you to see what is happening outside.
• Do not open for anyone you do not know. Rather stay inside and if you doubt the motives of the stranger phone you’re security company or police. Never admit to a stranger that you are alone at home, even in a phone conversation. If a repair-person is expected, do not allow them entry until proper identification from the company in question is shown.
• Do not allow strangers into your home to make telephone calls, rather get the number from them and let them wait outside the property while you make the call. If you notice a suspicion person or vehicle in your neighbourhood, phone the police or security company immediately and try to take down the vehicle registration number.

Another tip Mapogo wanted to give Randfontein residents is to change routines regularly so that you don’t leave and get home at the same time.

“Many of the reported crimes take place in the couple of minutes it takes you to get home or leave. You are then vulnerable and criminals know that you have house and car keys on you, not to mention you’re laptop, cell phone and wallet. Be cautious when getting home and make sure there isn’t a car following you before you pull into your drive way,” King added.