The Pretoria Moot police have warned residents to be vigilant during this time and to enjoy themselves responsibly.
Spokesperson Captain Anton Breedt said criminals were still targeting shopping centres.
To assist residents, the police provided the following safety tips.
At home:
– Always inform at least one neighbour if you intend on leaving for a vacation.
– When leaving your home, make sure that all windows and doors are closed and locked.
– Make sure that any object that might and can be used to gain entrance to your home, are locked away.
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– Always place valuables, such as laptops, jewellery and cellphones, away or in a place that is not obvious where a person will look for it.
– Try to arrange with a family member to look after your house, especially if you have animals.
– Keep large appliances away from windows.
– Always leave at least two lights on inside the house.
– Inform and arrange with your security company when you are leaving and join your local CPF or neighbourhood watch.
– If replacing any valuables, make sure to destroy the box it was purchased in.
Shopping:
– Do not fall victim to any scam. Always demand to speak to shop managers about any “special” presented to you.
– Avoid wearing expensive jewellery.
– When pushing trolleys in the shop, always keep your purse with you. Never leave your handbag unattended.
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– Avoid carrying a large amount of money. When payments have to be made, rather make use of alternative means.
– Always be wary of your surroundings
Theft of, out and from motor vehicles:
– When parking your vehicle at a shopping centre, home or at friends, make sure it is locked or the alarm is activated. Double check if it is locked – criminals use jamming devices.
– When you have a large group of friends and family visiting, make use of a car guard or arrange a more secure parking with your neighbours.
– Remove all loose items that may attract attention to criminals.
– Always be wary of suspicious people or vehicles. Report them to the police.
– Make use of visible parking areas. Criminals only need five minutes to steal a vehicle.
Acting station commander Lieutenant-Colonel Thomas Nekhumbe wished families a blessed festive season.
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“Thank you for honouring police officers who strive and commit to establish and maintain a safe and secure environment for the community,” he said.
“Be safe and vigilant at all times and be assured that the management and members are at all times on high alert in the fight against crime.”
Nekhumbe extended a thank you to the CPF, private security companies and other role players for their ongoing support and commitment.
“Our police station welcomes all initiatives and assistance to prevent crime from taking place,” he said.
“It is common knowledge that most crimes are committed in the absence of the police.”
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