Keeping public parks safe

Parkview Police are still experiencing a rise in the number of criminal incidents recorded at public places such as the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens, Emmerntia Dam, Zoo Lake, and George Hay Park.

Compared to this time last year, the number of common robberies, assaults and sexual offences have increased. It is for this reason that the station’ officers, with the Parkview Community Policing Forum and its Victim Support Unit, hosted an awareness campaign at these parks on the morning of 20 November, to share crucial and potentially lifesaving information with the public. According to the station’s spokesperson, Captain Tintswalo Sibeko they will need the users of these parks to get on board with keeping themselves and the park safe. She explained, “It’s not possible for the police to patrol all these parks at all times and we, therefore, ask for the public to help make it a safe place by being aware of the issues.”

Those using parks alone in the early hours of the morning are prime targets for criminals. During the campaign, the police stopped individuals and small groups entering and exiting the park and informed them of the rising crime levels while offering them tips on how to avoid becoming a victim. Sibeko added, “Along with the information we were sharing, we were also handing out safety whistles to the public. This will enable them to bring attention to themselves if they ever find themselves in a bad situation in the parks.”

Parkview Police has advised users of parks and open public spaces to be more cautious during this time. She stated that the station will increase its activities to help reduce crime, but pleaded with the public to remember the safety tips below.
n Be vigilant during the high-risk times between 4.30am and 10am, and 5pm and 7pm. These times provide opportunities for criminals to take advantage of park users

• Be aware of people and vehicles in the close vicinity. Situational Awareness is your greatest defence tool.
• Try to exercise or use the parks in groups – there’s safety in numbers. Look after each and every group member and do not let people fall behind.
• Don’t use headphones – they reduce your awareness of what’s going on around you and make you vulnerable.
• Don’t display valuable items such as phones and cameras, keep them hidden.
• Avoid being in areas of a limited line of sights such as thick bushes and shrubs. Stick to paths that are open and preferably well used.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back

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