Randburg police spokesperson Captain Makgowanyana Maja issued some crime safety tips for Randburg residents to follow to help avoid housebreakings and robberies.
Maja said robberies and break-ins at homes continued to be a problem in the area, and these tips would help to ensure residents remained safe when leaving home and returning.
When leaving home:
- Before opening your perimeter gate, ensure there is no one loitering outside
- As soon as you exit your property set your alarm. If you cannot hear the system is set, install a small light on the outside of the house that is linked to the alarm system that shows when the alarm is set
- Never drive away from your property without checking that the gate has fully closed
- If you see any suspicious-looking individuals loitering near your home, do not approach them, rather call the relevant authorities.
On the road home:
- If you suspect that you are being followed, slow down at least two to three houses away from your home
- By doing so you will force the vehicle behind you to pass and this could deter the criminals to lose interest
- Always make sure that you can see the back wheels of the car in front of you when you are in traffic. This gives you enough room to escape
- Never get out of your car in traffic when a car bumps you from behind. Rather, drive to the nearest public spot and signal the driver behind you to do the same
- If you live in a secure complex, it is still advisable to be vigilant when entering the complex as it is still possible for criminals to enter without being noticed
- Never antagonise hijackers. If you are being hijacked, lift your hands and show them that you are not a threat
- Always remain calm while trying not to make eye contact with the hijacker. Try to remember what they are wearing so you can identify them later.
When arriving home/when at home:
- If you think you are being followed, do not go home. Drive to the nearest police station or to another safe place e.g. a petrol station
- Deactivate your alarm once you are sure the area is safe
- If a relative is already at home and has deactivated the alarm, check your surroundings before entering the property
- Wait until your gate has closed fully before proceeding up the driveway.
