Know your neighbour campaign in full swing
People are urged to know their neighbours as part of a crime fighting initiative.
Residents should get involved in their communities by getting to know their neighbourhoods and neighbours this year.
This is according to Director of ADT Central Region Clive Humphrey who says that your neighbours are the closest in proximity to you when you are at home and are likely to be the first to identify a possible problem and says that this is a vital defence mechanism in community security.
“By knowing your neighbours’ daily routines and those of the domestic staff as well as the surroundings of the neighbourhood, it is easier to notice suspicious people, vehicles and activity.
“This can help in blowing the whistle and stopping criminals in their tracks and we have seen this through successful crime prevention in suburbs where residents get actively involved in their communities.
“Owing to this, we want a situation where neighbours start sharing security tips and reporting suspicious individuals or vehicles spotted in their respective areas,” says Humphrey.
He adds that this will also assist security providers and the SAPS get a better understanding of the criminal element in the area and implement effective crime prevention methods.
“You never know when you will need help or if anyone will be around when you do.
“Why not take the time to get to know at least two of your neighbours and get to know your neighbourhood better this year.
“Whether you’ve recently moved into a new area or have been living there for a while, one must meet with their neighbours and discuss ways to keep their families and homes safe.
“Start by exchanging cell phone numbers so that you are able to contact each other when necessary.
“Agree to keep an eye on one another’s properties and to contact the other about suspicious people or when something appears out of place.
“If either or both of you travel often or takes regular holidays,talk about doing small chores for each other while you are away.
“This includes removing mail from the post-box on a daily basis and witching on inside and outdoor lights so that your home does not appear unoccupied,” says Humphrey.
He adds that by working together as each other’s eyes and ears, you, your neighbours, the
SAPS and security providers can make your area a no-go zone for
criminals.
