How security-conscious are Gautengers? Do we know our crime hotspots and where we’re most vulnerable?
General Manager of ADT Inland Region Theunis Kotze says most people should know this but many people still don’t take the necessary precautions in situations or areas where the risk of being attacked by criminals is that much higher.
ADT says these are the four places you’re most vulnerable:
#1 — Driveways: 68 percent of hijackings take place in residential driveways, according to the National Hijack Prevention Academy, because the suburbs offer accessible escape routes for criminals.
A hijacking in your driveway can easily turn into a robbery if the criminals decide to force you into the house. ADT advise when you arrive at home, do not pull into your driveway. Stay in the street while you wait for the gate to open so that you can see what is happening up and down the street.
This leaves you an option to drive off should someone suspicious approach you. It is important to be aware of your surroundings at ALL times when leaving or arriving home.
#2 — Leaving the bank: Criminals have eyes everywhere and banks are a favourite hunting ground.
They thrive on the fact that people are too busy going about their daily chores and routines to notice being watched or followed home from the bank. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and be aware of your surroundings at ALL times while walking to your car and on route home.
#3 — Leaving a shopping centre: There have been numerous incidents recently of shoppers being followed home after leaving a retail centre.
Criminals often have spotters in these centres and they know who is leaving with what or what jewellery shoppers have on. They generally follow the shopper home and hijack them in their driveway. It is important to stay particularly vigilant when leaving a shopping centre. If you think you are being followed drive to the nearest police station or busy petrol station.
#4 — Intersections after dark or early in the morning: Especially near bridges, these are the playground of smash and grabbers.
While some attacks have proven to have more sinister motives than theft, most happen because they spot something worth grabbing in the car. Keep ALL valuables out of sight and this includes things that vaguely resemble something of value, like a lunch bag or empty sunglasses pouch.
These are the things which make your more vulnerable:
#1 — Distracted driving: A lot of people say after a criminal incident that “the criminals came out of nowhere”. We all know this isn’t true which is why it’s so important to be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Hijackers especially rely on the element of surprise. Why not surprise them by seeing them coming!
# 2 — Leaving your gate open: ADT Officers spot many, many open gates and garages while on patrol in the suburbs. This is an open invitation to criminals. Always check that the gate is closed before you drive off and, especially, before you go into the house. Be vigilant at all times while waiting for the gate to open and close.
#3 — Not arming your alarm: Criminals know most people don’t arm their alarm system before they leave for work so all they need to do is wait for the street to quieten down and they’re in. You should test your alarm regularly and also arm your alarm when you go to bed.
#4 — Being flash: Expensive jewellery and cash will quickly catch a criminal’s eye. Be sensible with valuables and cash in public and make sure you’re not being followed.
“The truth is you could be accosted by criminals almost anywhere. But there are places where the risk is higher and it is here that we need to be extra vigilant and security savvy. It should come as no surprise that the first hotspot is the driveway.
“Armed robberies and hijackings in driveways are a scourge in Gauteng and people need to take the warnings and security advice regarding this seriously,” Kotze concludes.
Driveway hijacking defence (info: www.hijack.co.za)
• At least 2kms from home, switch off your radio, forget about your cellphone and concentrate on your surroundings. Make sure you’re not being followed.
• When you’ve pulled in, stop your vehicle just on the inside of the gate and select reverse while waiting for the gate to close. This creates confusion and may buy you a few seconds for the gate to close completely behind you.
• Check your driveway and street before you leave or enter your premises.
• Make sure your driveway is well lit and clear from shrubbery where perpetrators can hide.
• Be aware of unknown pedestrians or vehicles close to your house. If you see anything suspicious don’t turn into your driveway. Contact the SAPS or your security company.
Be alert if your dogs don’t greet you at the gate as usual.
• Phone home and ask for someone to make sure your driveway is safe and to open and close the gate for you.
• When returning home after dark, ensure that an outside light is on, or have someone meet you at the gate. Most armed response companies offer a meet and greet service so use this is possible.
• If at any time you have to open the gate yourself, make sure there is nobody suspicious around and the road is clear. Stop right in front of your gate. Don’t switch off the vehicle, leave the key in the ignition, get out and close the door (not creating temptation). Then open the gate. Drive in and close the gate immediately behind you.
• If you have small children in the vehicle, take the key with you (this is the only exception). You need the key as a “negotiating tool”. The perpetrators want your vehicle and you want your children.
• If your children are older, it is advised that they exit the vehicle with you when opening the gate so that you are all separated from the vehicle should an attack occur.
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