As South Africans look forward to a relaxing long weekend at the end of April and as we celebrate Freedom Day on Thursday, April 27 as well as Workers’ Day on Monday, May 1, many opportunistic criminals are looking to target vulnerable homes for easy pickings.
Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity ADT thus cautioned residents to remain vigilant to avoid becoming an easy target.
She stated that residents must always remember to activate outside beams as they are an early warning signal.
Also read: Safety tips for baby carriers, slings, and backpacks
“Opportunistic crime is exactly what the name implies – opportunistic. If your perimeter isn’t secure criminals will take advantage and attempt to steal anything left visibly. Laptops on counters and even bicycles in open garages become easy pickings,” she said.
She added that suspects are quick and can get in and out within minutes and if they can’t get into your house or business, they take what they can from your property or parked cars.
Also read: Fire safety tips every child must know
Charnel gave the following safety tips:
• Ensure that perimeter doors are fitted with appropriate locks.
• Fit suitable “spacers”, locks, or bolts to all sliding doors to prevent them from being lifted off their tracks which is the most common method used on sliding doors and windows.
• Ensure all windows are fitted with appropriate locks or burglar bars.
• All duplicate keys must be locked away if not being used. Don’t leave them indoors or make unnecessary copies.
• Keep the garage and tool shed locked (intruders shouldn’t have access to any item that can be used as a weapon or burglary tool).
• Install outside lights that can be remotely controlled from inside the house or install a motion-activated light outside.
• Reduce all heavy foliage (like leaves or bushes) near your perimeter wall and gate to reduce the possibility of being used as hiding places.
For theft out of a motor vehicle and theft of vehicles:
• Always be aware of your surroundings – in public and outside a property.
• Report any suspicious activity
• Don’t leave valuables in an unattended vehicle (If you have to ensure they are in the boot and that it’s locked).
• Never push the remote locking device while walking away from the vehicle and make sure the vehicle is locked by testing the door.
“Ensure that your alarms are in working order and are set. Also, be alert when driving in the area, and if you believe you are being followed don’t turn into your driveway but rather drive to your nearest police station, security boom, or a place with activity. Remember to only open your gate when you are sure it’s safe to do so and close it immediately after you have entered,” concluded Hattingh.
