Property crime is rife in Boksburg and, according to the police, criminals tend to select properties belonging to those who are not paying attention to safety during the festive period.
Although the Boksburg SAPS have contingency plans in place to prevent crime, residents are also advised to play their part.
The police’s festive season crime prevention plans include high police visibility and crime operations, such as raids, stop and search, undercover police operations, and foot beat officers.
A spokesperson for the Boksburg SAPS, Lieut Kwendzakwakhe Ngobese, said if you leave your home unoccupied while you are on holiday it can be an irresistible target for thieves.
He, however, stated that there are plenty of things that homeowners can do to make their homes, and the possessions contained within it, more secure while they are away.
The following tips are suggested to keep your home safe while you are away:
Occupancy
Get a reliable friend or relative to house-sit for you, but if this is not possible, you should take steps to make it look like your house is occupied.
Cancel any regular deliveries for the period you are away, such as newspapers, to prevent the uncollected items building up on your doorstep, giving a clear signal that the house is unoccupied.
Alternatively, ask someone to clear your post box every few days while you are away.
Ensure that lights are switched off during the day, because outside lights that are on during the day are signs that no one is home.
Create the illusion of occupancy by installing some timer switches set up to turn lights and radios on and off at certain times.
You can also ask your neighbour to keep an eye on your house while you’re away.
Security system
Upgrading your home security system is vital.
Check that your burglar alarm system is working properly before you go on holiday.
Good quality door and window locks are also a must, and you should be sure to lock all your doors and completely close all your windows.
Ensure all windows and doors have burglar bars.
You can also install CCTV cameras to act as a deterrent.
Do not leave keys on the inside of doors or hidden in the property.
ATM
Residents are also urged to keep themselves safe when using ATMs.
* Avoid using ATMs that look like they may have been tampered with.
* Make sure other people can’t see you enter your PIN.
* Be wary of strangers offering to help – especially if your card has just been retained by the ATM.
* Finally, you should refrain from carrying large amounts of cash.
The police have also urged holidaymakers to take every precaution while they are on the city’s roads; adhere to the rules of the road and don’t drink and drive.
