Avoid being a smash-and-grab victim

JOBURG - The ever-present and ever-increasing incidences of smash-and-grab attacks committed by spark plug thieves demands immediate and effective action.

BEWARE: Witkoppen Road in Paulshof has become a hotspot for smash and grabs.

This was made clear in a video of a smash-and-grab incident on the corner of Cambridge and Witkoppen roads.

According to Robyn Farrell, executive head of 1st for Women Insurance, “Although the police are taking several steps to combat smash-and-grab incidents around the city, it is up to you, the motorist, to avoid becoming a victim by remaining as vigilant and alert as possible.”

She offered some tips to prevent a smash-and-grab attack:

Leave your passenger windows open by about three centimetres to make the glass more flexible, allowing the window to absorb the sudden impact of an attempted smash-and-grab.
It is advisable not to leave any valuables, or anything at all worth stealing, visible on either your passenger or back seat. By doing this, you are attracting the attention of potential smash-and-grab thieves. Keep your briefcase or handbag stored in the boot or under your seat.
Street intersections, stop signs or driveways are regarded as smash and grab ‘hot spots’ at any given time. Always remain on full alert when stationary in your vehicle.
When you approach an intersection, leave a reasonable stopping distance between you and the car in front of you to allow yourself room to manoeuvre and escape any dangerous situation.
Keep your hand close to the hooter when you are at a robot or stop street.
When approaching a red traffic light at night, it is better to slow down so that you only reach the robot when it turns green.
Possibly the best smash-and-grab preventative means is to have polycarb film fitted to your windows. This is tinted so that potential thieves cannot see into your car. The film makes it extremely difficult to shatter your windows and it also reduces glare. In addition, the film reduces the chance of injury from broken glass.

“In the event of a smash-and-grab attack, it is advisable to remain calm and do not show any signs of aggression or threaten or challenge the culprit. Items such as handbags and cellphones are replaceable, your life is not,” concluded Farrell.