The Din-Al-View CPF is warning the community that home invasions are getting out of hand in the area.
Most people don’t have a “plan” as to how they will deal with this situation.
“We think the police or the CPF or our neighbour will protect us.
“We often deny the possibility of this happening to us and assume it only happens to other people.
“This assumption can, unfortunately, be incorrect and anyone can become a victim to this type of crime.
“We need to develop a ‘survivor’ mind-set,” said Jane Dijkman, public relations officer for the Din-Al-View CPF.
Home invasion prevention against entry by deception involves you being on your guard.
Don’t open your door to strangers and be as sure as you can be about the identity of those who you allow inside your home.
“The tactics criminals use to trick their way into your home to commit robbery are the same kind of deceptive ruses they use for distraction burglary.
“The difference is that once they are inside your home, invaders will quickly drop any pretence, overpower you and use terror, or even violence to obtain what they want, such as your new PlayStation, laptop or TV.
“They already know about your new purchases as the box it arrived in is lying on your pavement for collection with your other refuse.
“Rather tear the box up and take it to work with you for disposal or ensure the pieces are out of sight in a refuse bag,” said Dijkman.
Criminals will attempt to pass themselves off as representatives of companies, repair services, local council officers, charity workers and a lot more.
Uniforms are no guarantee that the person wearing it is genuine.
Home invasion criminals rarely work alone, unless they think they are dealing with a frail person, so be more wary if two or more people arrive unexpectedly at the gate.
If the person is alone, ensure there are no other people loitering nearby or approaching your home.
If someone wants access to enter your home for any reason, refuse.
Do not allow a feeling of guilt or pity cause you to drop your guard.
Even those entering legitimately to view items that you have advertised for sale or to quote on services may use a pretence to separate from each other and move around your home while you are occupied with the other.
“You may be informed that you have won a prize and they are delivering it.
“If you have not been contacted or have not entered the competition, refuse access.
“If they need to call emergency services, you can make the call on their behalf, but don’t let them in.
“Report these attempts to your SAPS sector vehicle, security company, CPF and neighbours,” Dijkman said.
The Sector Five areas are Albemarle, Dinwiddie, Castleview, Union and Norton Small Farms.
For Sector Five residents, the SAPS sector van contact numbers are 071 675 6862 and 071 675 6862.
The Germiston Police Station number is 011 871-5000.
“Be vigilant at all times and don’t feel pressured to do anything you feel uncomfortable doing.
“After all, it is your life,” Dijkman said.
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