House break-ins peak in Sinoville during load-shedding

Residents of Sinoville and surrounds have been tormented by a dramatic rise in house break-ins this festive season.

Local CPF spokesperson Lizette du Plooy said the invasions occur mainly at night during load-shedding.

She said the thieves take advantage of security feature downtime because during the power outages CCTV cameras and alarms are not operational.

She advised locals to swap to battery-powered or backed up security systems.

“It’s quite costly but people should invest in a battery-powered security system or an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) that can provide backup power during power outages. This will keep your alarm system, cameras, and other security features functioning even when the main power is down.”

She said thieves look for the house without occupants.

“Criminals are monitoring the areas because in most instances, there are no occupants in the house as some people are on vacation at the time of the break-in.”

She said the thieves take valuable items such as plasma TVs, laptops and cellphones and sometimes even solar power components.

Local police spokesperson Sergeant Gomolemo Modibane said people who are going on vacation should refrain from posting to social media that they are away from home but rather should ask a neighbour or friend to look after their house while they are vacation.

“Posting on social media that you are away puts you in the spotlight and attracts criminals to target your home.”

CPF tips to prevent break-ins:

– Use outdoor lighting with motion sensor technology
Instal motion sensor lights outside your property to deter potential burglars. These lights will turn on automatically when they detect any movement, making it harder for criminals to approach your property unnoticed.

– Secure your windows and doors
Reinforce your windows and doors with strong locks, deadbolts, and security bars. Consider installing shatterproof glass or laminated glass windows that are more difficult to break.

– Keep your property well-maintained
Trim overgrown bushes and trees near windows and entrances, as these can provide hiding spots for burglars. Maintain proper lighting around your property to eliminate dark areas where criminals could conceal themselves.

– Create the illusion of occupancy
Use timers on indoor lights, radios, and televisions to create the impression that someone is home, even when there is a power outage. This can discourage burglars looking for empty houses to target.

– Get to know your neighbours
Build good relationships with your neighbours and establish a neighbourhood watch programme. Inform each other of any suspicious activities or individuals observed in the area.

– Secure your garage
Keep your garage doors locked, and consider installing a manual lock or security latch to prevent forced entry. Ensure windows in the garage are also secured.

– Secure valuables
Safely store valuable items such as jewellery, important documents, and electronics in a hidden and locked safe, preferably bolted to the floor. This will deter burglars, even if they gain access to your home.

– Make your absence less noticeable
If you need to leave your home during a power outage period, avoid broadcasting it to the public. Prevent your absence from being obvious by stopping mail and newspaper deliveries, as overflowing mailboxes or piled-up newspapers can indicate an empty home.

Sinoville CPF 24 hour sector emergency numbers:

– Sector 1 (Annlin, Wonderboom, Sinoville and Magalieskruin): 071 509 6830

-Sector 2 (Montana Park, Montana Gardens and Montana Agricultural Holdings – north of Sefako Makgatho Drive): 079 025 5001

-Sector 3 and 4 (Doornpoort): 074 133 4353

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