Safety a priority in Sharonlea
SHARONLEA – Security companies come together to host a safety and security awareness campaign for the community at Sharonlea Primary School.
Security companies, police, neighbourhood watch groups, and the Greater Sharonlea Residents Forum came together to host a safety and security awareness day.
In an afternoon of raising crime awareness at Sharonlea Primary School on 23 June, community members learnt what to do in a robbery and hijacking, with a hijacking and robbery simulation, and a variety of tips on how to stay safe.
Werner Koen of OnArmor Security Services said, “We were asked by the community to come in and raise awareness for safety and security, and demonstrate how it is done. We work closely with the community and protection groups, and this is something that we take pride in.”
In the first simulation, a ‘ hijacked’ vehicle was brought onto the grounds of the primary school, with three armed ‘hijackers’ occupying it, followed by security officers to demonstrate how they would intercept it.
Later, a simulated house robbery took place, with an alarm being triggered by armed men. This was followed by a simulation of how to stay safe during a hijacking.
Security officers fired blank rounds in each simulation, and a breakdown of what was occurring with safety tips played over the speakers at the same time.
Cedric Smith, also of OnArmor Security Services added, “The aim of today was to help people lower the risk of being hurt in a dangerous situation.”
Koen added, “It is unfortunate that crime is everywhere and we all need to be aware of how to care for our own safety. I have to commend the work that the community does through their CPF in Sharonlea, and also the police for their presence today, as they really have done an amazing job at fighting crime.”
Little ones – and their parents – got particularly excited to see a real helicopter land in front of them during the paramedic display. After the helicopter landed, community members were able to view the chopper up close, with children invited to sit inside.
Ward 134 councillor Wendy Alexander, who brought her own little one to watch the exciting display added, “I think that it is quite an awakening for the community to understand the various role-players in keeping the community safe. It is a whole variety of people who work to keep communities safe, and it’s wonderful to see how it all works behind the scenes.”
ALSO READ: Residents need to notice tangible changes for Operation Buya Mthetho to succeed
