CPF: 9 safety tips for the holiday

The chairperson of the Community Policing Forum (CPF), Andy Goetsche, wishes to thank residents for their contribution during the past year.

There will not be another meeting held in 2015 and the next meeting will only be on the second Tuesday of January next year at 14:30 at the SAPS Detective offices on the corner of Kruger and Ruiter Road. Thereafter the meetings will be held monthly at the same time and venue.

Sometimes the telephone lines are busy at the SAPS Mokopane, therefore a cell phone is also being utilised at the station. The number is 081 505 9340.

The correct Telkom numbers to use are (015) 409 1418/1419/1420. The 10111 number can also be used for assistance.

The CPF provided some safety tips for the festive season:

•We urge parents to take care of their children during the school holiday. This is the most dangerous time for a child to take part in criminal activities or to be abducted. Teach them not to get involved or to talk to strangers.

• Be careful at ATM’s especially when you withdraw large amounts. Do not let someone help or look over your shoulder. If you withdraw large amounts please do not stop or leave your vehicle unattended.

• Theft out of vehicles is a daily occurrence. Ensure that your vehicle is locked before you walk away. If you use a remote control, feel on the handle that your doors are locked.

• Do not leave articles, shopping or handbags in the vehicle. Please don’t drive with your handbag on the seat or somewhere where it is visible. Lock your doors and windows. A recent increase of thefts at robots was reported.

• Test your home alarm before you leave on holiday and always leave a set of keys and remotes with family, friends or neighbours to investigate and to deactivate when alarm is activated unnecessary.

• Be prepared and take note of when your neighbours go on holiday. Be on the lookout for strangers that walk around in the area.

• Don’t put Christmas gift boxes on the paving as criminals are on the lookout for newly bought equipment.

• Arrange that someone trims your grass and empty’s your mailbox while you are on holiday.

• Also please note that there is a municipal bylaw (Notice 368 of March, 1973 – section 21) which states entitles any person to report any noises that disturbs the peace in streets or in public places.

The CPF wishes all the residents a blessed festive season and may everyone return safely from holiday.