Safety over the long weekend
The suspects are quick, getting in and out within minutes. If they can’t get into your house or business, they take what they can from your property or from your parked cars.
As South Africans look forward to a relaxing long weekend at the end of April as we celebrate Freedom Day on April 27 and Workers Day on May 1, many opportunistic criminals are looking to target vulnerable homes for easy pickings.
Charnel Hattingh, Group head of marketing & communications for Fidelity ADT, cautions residents to remain vigilant to avoid becoming an easy target.
Residents are reminded to always remember to activate outside beams as these act as an early warning signal.
“Opportunistic crime is exactly what the name implies – opportunistic. If your perimeter is not secure criminals will take advantage and attempt to steal anything left visibly.
“Laptops on counters and even bicycles in open garages become easy pickings,” she says.
The suspects are quick, getting in and out within minutes. If they can’t get into your house or business, they take what they can from your property or from your parked cars.
She offers the following safety tips:
• Ensure that perimeter doors are fitted with adequate locks.
• Fit suitable “spacers”, locks or bolts to all sliding doors to prevent them from being lifted off their tracks (the most common method used by burglars on sliding doors and windows).
• Ensure all windows are fitted with adequate locks or burglar bars that cover all glass.
• Ensure that all duplicate keys are locked away if not in use. Do not leave in doors or make unnecessary copies.
• Keep the garage and tool shed locked when not in use. Would–be intruders should not have access to any item that can be used as a weapon or burglary tool.
• Install outside lights that can be remotely controlled from inside the house. Consider installing lighting outside which is activated by a motion detector.
• Reduce all heavy foliage near your perimeter wall and gate to reduce the possibility of those spots being used as hiding places.
For theft out of motor vehicle and theft of vehicles:
• Always be aware of your surroundings – this applies to any public parking areas or even if you park on the road outside a property.
• Report any suspicious activity
• Do not leave valuables in an unattended vehicle. If you have to ensure they are in the boot.
• Never push the remote locking device whilst walking away from the vehicle
• Check that the vehicle is locked by testing the door
• Ensure the boot is locked
• Avoid shopping late in at night, keeping in mind curfew regulations
“Please ensure that your alarms are in working order and are set. Please also be alert when driving in the area and if you believe you are being followed don’t turn into your driveway but rather drive to your nearest police station, security boom or a place with activity.
“Remember to only open your gate when you are sure it is safe to do so and close it immediately after you have entered,” concludes Hattingh.
