Prepare for influx of criminals
Local police warn community to be wary as festive season approaches.
AS the festive season begins, Brighton Beach SAPS’ safety campaign is in full swing as they prepare for an influx of criminals targeting holidaymakers.
“As holidaymakers descend on our suburb, an influx of those with criminal intentions can be expected,” said communications officer, Captain Louise Le Roux.
To prepare locals and vacationers for this, 1,500 leaflets were handed out, explaining the ways to minimise the risk of robbery.
“The best prevention guideline is to be aware of your surroundings at all times, avoid distractions and stay vigilant,” said Capt Le Roux.
Included in the leaflets were the following tips:
* Walk near the curb, on the side closest to and facing oncoming traffic. This decreases the risk of someone in a car coming up behind you and it gives a better angle to seeing into doorways and alleys.
*Don’t walk in the street while texting, talking on your phone or listening to music through headphones.
* If confronted by an attacker, obey their requests. Don’t challenge them.
* Don’t use stairways, rather use a public road and avoid walking alone through parks.
* Don’t wear expensive jewellery as it attracts criminals.
* Avoid known dangerous parts of a town or area, especially at night. Areas with little foot traffic areas are especially risky.
* Don’t walk in the street while intoxicated.
* Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Rather use card facilities or electronic transfers. Use your body as a shield when typing your secret pin code and continue doing so until the money dispensed from the ATM. Stay stationary until you have put the money away. If you think that you are being followed travel directly to your nearest police station.
* Don’t carry paperwork with you that reveals your personal address or details.
* If you are visiting a new location, find out in advance the safest and quickest route prior to departure. Also ask for beacons along the way so you can make sure you are moving in the right direction.
* Don’t carry any identification tag attached to your house keys such as your physical address or mobile number.
* If you predominantly travel on foot, attach a whistle to your handbag or belt to which have easy access. Blow short, yet loud breaths through your whistle – this will serve as an alarm and attract attention as a call for help.
* Always have a short peep over your shoulder, alternate just to make sure you are not being followed. If you suspect that you are being followed change direction, move towards a group of people or enter a shopping complex.
* Report broken streets lights outside your home as soon as possible. Poor lit areas create a shield for criminals and make it easier for them to rob you.
Brighton Beach SAPS management thanks the Hillside Mall and Bluff Towers for allowing the hosting of the campaign and Capt Le Roux and Warrant Officer Myran Small are thanked for distributing the leaflets.
