Security company Fidelity ADT has urged residents to remain vigilant about home security following a recent spike in opportunistic crime.
“We have received numerous reports of electronic device thefts. Cellphones were stolen from joggers, walkers and cyclists, and laptops and iPads were stolen through open windows and/ or unlocked doors,” explained Charnel Hattingh, National Marketing and Communications Manager at Fidelity ADT.
She said opportunistic thieves are aware that families are working from home, and that children are continuing with online schooling via electronic devices.
“As such these criminals will be on the lookout for easy opportunities to take advantage of vulnerable properties.
The best defence against burglars, opportunistic thieves and/ or armed robbers is to make your property as unattractive to criminals as possible by implementing extra precautions to keep your belongings safe – inside and outside the home,” Hattingh said.
With families being at home, there are vehicles parked in the driveway; bicycles, toys and tools are left in the garden; and doors, windows and security gates often are left open, she said.
“All these things appeal to criminals, and your home could be targeted during the day or night.”
According to the security company, one of their reaction officers on the East Rand caught a suspect just this week for allegedly stealing two children’s bikes from people’s garage.
Last week we unfortunately had a couple of more serious cases when cyclists were stabbed and joggers were mugged for their valuables,” she said.
“Keep your security gates locked at all times and ensure the keys are removed. Activate early-warning systems such as garden beams and/ or electric fencing, and ensure these are linked to armed response. Make sure your alarm is working properly in all zones of the home,” added Hattingh.
Get the whole family involved in security, and ensure they know where the panic buttons are, how to use them and who to phone in an emergency. Also remain alert when out during the designated times of 6am and 9am, and ensure all valuables are out of sight and well covered.
“Tightening up small vulnerabilities can amount to a huge relief when it comes to home and personal security.
Remain vigilant and do not leave anything to chance during lockdown,” Hattingh concluded.
