ESKOM made its latest announcement on Sunday, 14 June that it will implement stage one load shedding from 5pm to 10pm.
The power utility also urged electricity users to consider energy-efficient ways of keeping warm as the country experiences cold weather conditions during winter, but keeping warm isn’t the only concern during load shedding.
During this period there are many security concerns; with alarm systems down and electric fences disabled, many homes are becoming targets of crime during the blackout periods and residents would want to report those crimes to the police.
When the power is out for the Hillcrest community, the Hillcrest SAPS also experiences no electricity, and during this two-hour period the phone lines and computers are offline.
This introduces a different issue: the community can’t get hold of the police station during that time, and in cases of crime or house break-ins the police can’t be reached for help.
“No communication can be made to us during the load shedding period,” said Hillcrest SAPS station commander, Col Bafana Ndlovu.
“The phones at the station are powered by electricity and the station does not have a generator to keep the phones working when the lights go off. Generators are supplied by Public Works – we have made an application to the department and are awaiting an outcome,” he explained.
“I think it is unacceptable, yet I think it is not the Hillcrest SAPS’s fault, I blame management for not being able to allocate funds adequately,” said Hillcrest ward councillor, Rick Crouch.
Crouch added that residents should call the 24-hour crime reporting call centre number – 10111 – in cases of emergencies.
Hillcrest residents could be left to fend for themselves if criminals strike during the blackout period.
