The Douglasdale Community Policing Forum (CPF) has taken to social media to remind residents of the ever-present threat of smash-and-grab incidents in the area.
The post was shared on the Douglasdale CPF Facebook page on 17 September and reminds residents that smash-and-grabs happen regularly both in Douglasdale and surrounding areas. “Criminals target small electronics, mainly cellphones and laptops, as well as handbags,” read the post in part.
“It has been found that lone women are targeted most of the time and usually whilst stationary at red traffic lights at night, or whilst stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic.”
The post also pointed out that cases of failed -grabs are incredibly rare, which suggests that criminals only target vehicles which have goods visible for them to take.
The CPF gave some advice to help residents protect themselves:
- Avoid using a cellphone without a hands-free kit while driving
- Do not keep valuables in view, for example, laptop bag on any of the vehicle’s seats, cellphones on your dashboard or handbags behind the passenger seat.
Other useful tips, published on the Altech Netstar website include:
- Be alert and aware of your surroundings, particularly when stopped at intersections and traffic lights. Smash-and-grabbers tend to target those who are distracted.
- Always keep all doors locked and only open your windows slightly
- Leave the length of a vehicle between your car and the car in front of you – this will give you the necessary room if you need to make an emergency escape.
Finally, the CPF reminds residents that offramps and main roads are locations favoured for smash-and-grab attempts, particularly intersections between routes such as William Nicol Drive, the N1, Witkoppen and Main Road.
For more information, visit the Douglasdale CPF Facebook page.
Douglasdale Saps: 011 699 1300.
Have you been a victim of a smash-and-grab? Share your experiences with us on the Fourways Review Facebook page
