The Din-Al-View CPF is warning residents of Germiston Sector Five to be especially vigilant.
Sector Five comprises Dinwiddie, Albemarle, Castleview, Union and Norton Small Farms (east of the N3 highway).
Christmas is approaching. and people know this as the “silly season”.
Criminals are quick to take advantage of a decrease in vigilance by people during this holiday season.
“Unfortunately, housebreakings are on the increase in our sector, mostly during the daytime,” said Jane Dijkman, public relations officer for the Din-Al-View CPF.
“The children are writing exams and will be in and out of the home at different times; please teach them to be watchful and to ensure that they are not being followed home.
“If possible, implement a buddy system to ensure that children do not arrive home alone.”
She added that children should also have the number of the police sector van and other emergency numbers saved on their phones, preferably on speed dial.
“It is even better to memorise the number,” Dijkman said.
“When you are in a panic you might not be able to find the number you are looking for.
“If you have neighbours at home who you trust, inform them of the times your children will leave and arrive at their home.”
The police have discovered some facts that could help citizens to protect themselves and their property from criminals.
Dijkman said that, lately, criminals have been targeting elderly victims.
Elderly residents should, thus, change their routine, avoid leaving home by the same route on a regular basis and be vigilant and observant.
“Look around the garden before taking your car out of the garage,” she advised.
“Check to see if there is any rubbish lying on your pavement, as it may be a marker, left there by a criminal.
“If there is, pick it up and dispose of it in your dustbin.
“If you feel uneasy and subscribe to a security service, call them to be present when you leave or arrive home, until you have left or are safely inside your property.
“A panic button connected to the house alarm system should be carried on your key ring.
“Keep all doors locked and windows closed and locked.
“If you don’t know the person knocking on your door, do not open the door, even if they beg you to do so.
“People will try anything, especially sympathy, to gain access to your property.
“Please be careful and don’t make rash decisions; rather phone someone to come over or contact your security company and let them deal with the person at your door.”
The Din-Al-View CPF, SAPS and security companies have patrollers on the road, but they cannot see everything.
This is one of the reasons the CPF is asking all community members to become CPF members.
Members have information available and may also report suspicious activities via CPF WhatsApp groups and be updated about crime in the sector.
“We need to support each other and combat crime by sharing information; the days are over where you looked only after yourself,” Dijkman said.
“Get to know your neighbours, even if you only greet them.
“Be aware of the number of residents in their home and the vehicles they drive.
“Be aware of their daily routines, so that dangerous situations may be avoided if something out of the ordinary takes place.
“By supporting each other and passing on information, crime can be reduced and our sector can become a safer place for our residents.”
Other articles you may be interested in:
CPF calls for complex committees to get involved in the fight against crime
Open letter to all Din-Al-View area residents
