Police warn of new burglary hotspots
Brakpan police have warned of an increase in break-ins in the Brenthurst and Dalpark Six areas.
Capt Joep Joubert, spokesperson for the Brakpan police station commander, pleaded with residents to be cautious and to ensure their homes are properly protected.
He told the Herald that residents can play an important part in preventing burglaries, by taking simple precautionary measures.
Joubert offered the following safety tips:
* Keep all your doors and security gates locked all the times, even when there is more than one person at home.
All main doors should be fitted with strong locks.
* Keep your garden well lit and trees and plants trimmed to eliminate any possible hiding places.
* Ensure that your house’s street number is clearly marked, so that it can easily be seen by emergency service personnel/the police who may need to get to you.
* If you are able to install additional security devices, do so, as every deterrent helps.
* It is your right to see the identification cards of callers who claim to be government or municipal officials, or even police officers. Even if they are in uniform, insist on it. If they refuse, order them to leave your property immediately and report the matter to the police.
* Never open the door to strangers and alert your family members or friends if you are sending someone unknown to their house.
* Keep cash, valuables and firearms in safe boxes that are securely bolted down.
* Report any suspicious persons, noises or sounds to the police immediately. Remember to listen for neighbours’ dogs barking unusually late in the evening or early in the morning.
Brakpan police can be contacted on 011 744 4940.
