Shopper oversight leads to higher risk

THE car guard vigilance training by Brighton Beach SAPS revealed that shoppers expose themselves to added risk though their own negligence.

The training, which was meted out at all the major shopping complexes on the Bluff, formed part of Brighton Beach SAPS’ business against crime campaign. Five training sessions saw 84 car guards given skills and tools to improve their work.

The car guards mentioned the safety issues they face on a daily basis and the ways in which shoppers put themselves at risk. Concerns raised included car windows left rolled down with valuables exposed; cars left unlocked when parked; drivers not ensuring their remote locking system has engaged before walking away; women not closing their handbags or leaving them unattended in trolleys and men carrying their wallets in back pockets; toddlers or animals left unattended in cars with little or no ventilation and parking illegally in disabled, loading or no-stopping zones.

“I found it very disturbing that car guards reported that some vehicle owners and shoppers become verbally and physically abusive towards them when their own negligence is pointed out. It is imperative the community works together with police to minimise crime over the festive season. Take care of your personal belonging and be vigilant at all times,” said Brighton Beach SAPS communications officer, Captain Louise Le Roux.

Brighton Beach SAPS management thanks Park Patrol, ADT and the management of the shopping malls for supporting the business against crime initiative and Capt Le Roux for facilitating it.