![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2018/04/Masego06CRIME1_20987.jpg)
Curbing the crime rate in the area is important to the Douglasdale Police Station and the head of communications, Captain Mpho Tshetlhane, explained how vital it is for community members to make sure that they properly lock their cars before leaving it parked in a public space.
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Tshetlhane said criminals try to be one step ahead of you. “This tactic not only allows them easy access to laptops, sunglasses, GPSs, jewellery and shopping bags full of goodies.”
She stressed that you should always double check that all your vehicle’s doors, as well as the boot, are properly closed before locking it. “If your car isn’t equipped with central locking, make sure that all of these are manually locked.”
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Tshetlhane advised it was important to:
- Make sure that the alarm system is armed before leaving your vehicle.
- Limit distractions and avoid being so busy chatting away or checking your cell phone that you aren’t focused on locking your car.
- Be wary of any suspicious-looking individuals watching you closely while you park and/or hanging around close to your vehicle.
- Be alert of your surroundings and where you park your car.
“Community members should work hand in hand with the police in the fight against crime and by working together we believe that we can eradicate crime in the area.”