Covid-19: Take security seriously during lockdown

The Germiston community has been concerned for its safety since President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the 21-day lockdown.

They questioned if security companies in the area will be working as usual because there has been an increase in crime in the Germiston area.

Milly Barnard, community development manager for Fidelity ADT East Rand area, said they are aware of the concerns.

“As ADT, we issued an alert to residents because we noticed an increase in crime in the area as we approached the national 21-day lockdown.

“There have been multiple robberies reported at homes,” said Barnard.

According to Barnard, this trend appears to be very opportunistic as most citizens focus on the well-being of their families and may for the moment neglect their basic security and safety needs.

“During this lockdown, we want to remind all residents to stay vigilant and not let their guard down.

“Criminals know families will be at home with extra hardware such laptops, computers and devices and unless you are paying attention to security, you could become an easy target,” said Barnard.

She urged people not to relax when it comes to their safety.

“Homeowners need to ensure all gates are secured and outside perimeter doors kept locked at all times.

“If you have outside beams these should be activated during the day.

“All members of the household should be given a security refresher to ensure everyone understands the importance of staying safe during this period,” said Barnard.

She said it’s not only households that are in danger, also shops and SMEs.

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“Shops and SMEs must ensure that their alarms are functional, activated and attended to during lockdown, as we may experience some loitering as the overall situation in the country deteriorates.

“Also, estates and complexes need to be on high alert as criminals could capitalise on deserted posts if security officers are not in attendance.

“Movement in these areas is also not as contained as in residential suburbs due to communal parks and clubhouses which can’t be locked down,” said Barnard.

She said ADT will be on high alert and serve the community.

They have comprehensive contingency plans in place.

“For the 21-day lockdown period we have partnered with medical emergency services, such as ER24 who will continue to provide services to their customers.

“Our service group is considered an essential service and we want to make sure our clients are safe.

“Our armed response officers will continue to patrol and protect our customers,” said Barnard.

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