Police in the Uthukela Cluster have noted that several housebreaking cases have been committed since the start of the school holidays. Some homes in Ekuvukeni, Ezakheni, Ladysmith and Estcourt, as well as Upper Tugela, were targeted by criminal elements.
These incidents occurred both during the day while residents were away and overnight while residents were asleep or out for the night.
Residents can help police limit the opportunity for these crimes and make themselves a harder target by implementing safety awareness at home:
A high fence around the house with lockable gates, is much better than a high wall due to the advantage of the improved visibility it provides. The primary aim of the fence is to make access/intrusion difficult and to allow dogs to move freely around the house. Ensure that your gates are locked at all times and that the keys cannot be reached easily or are not lying around uncontrolled.
Insert barring devices in door locks and remove keys from doors when leaving.
Also read: Ladysmith housebreaking suspects remanded into custody
Security gates with sturdy locks in front of each outer door (including sliding doors), as well as burglar proofing covering all windows, are recommended.
Critically evaluate the security at your home – the more effort it takes and the harder it is to break into your home, the less appealing your home becomes to criminal elements.
An alarm system, preferably connected to an armed response company, can act as an effective deterrent. An alarm must also have the capability to warn the occupants of any intrusion into the house.
Security lights on the outside of the house improve the physical protection of a house, farm or smallholding. The lights must be directed away from the house and must allow the occupants to use the windows without being observed from the outside. Be aware of possible shadows and blind spots.
Ensure that all doors are locked at all times.
Large dogs serve as a deterrent. At least one dog should be trained to sleep inside the house.
Vary your daily routine and be aware of the fact that someone may be watching your sleep patterns and movements. If you know your neighbour is out for the day or evening or on holiday, you can help by casting an eye over the property every now and again. If you spot anything out of place, inform the South African Police Service.
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