Safeguard your building now

POLOKWANE – The police have warned that, with residents being away over the upcoming Easter holidays, criminals will have plenty of soft targets to choose from.

According to Polokwane police spokesperson, Capt Ntobeng Phala, criminals take advantage of holidays, to break in to homes.

“Residents should be proactive in safeguarding their homes during this period,” he said, adding that, over the past week, four burglaries had been reported in and around Suid Street alone.

Make it more difficult for burglars to gain access to your home:

• Ensure that there are burglar bars on the windows and security- doors, gates, razor wire, additional locking devices on doors. Make sure doors are strengthened, peepholes in doors are closed and any alarm systems are in working order.

• Have security lights on the outside of the house.

• Ensure that all doors are locked at all times.

• Ensure that all windows are closed.

• Large dogs can serve as a deterrent.

• Ensure that tools such as axes, spades and picks are locked away.

• Get someone to look after your house.

• Make sure that your security company has access to your property.

Phala said the safety of a person’s house and property was first and foremost that person’s own responsibility.

“Relying on a neighbour or family member to look after your house is the better option. Being linked to the community policing forum in your area can also assist in the prevention of a burg-lary or other crimes.

“Be alert. Be proactive. Remember, prevention is always better that cure,” he concluded.