Beware of festive season crime in the east

As the festive season draws near, people tend to become more relaxed and that is exactly what opportunistic criminals desire, the police said this week.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Michael Nel said while Garsfontein has made significant strides in reducing property crimes in the precinct over the past months, residents should always be cautious and never let their guard down.

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Nel said the station had seen decreases in burglaries at residential and business premises, theft of motor vehicle, and theft out of/from motor vehicle compared to the same period the previous year.

“Police caution the public not to let their guard down since criminals are always on the lookout for easy targets.

He said predominant crimes as we get closer to the festive season included burglaries as most homes were empty as families went on vacation, theft of gate motors and vehicle-related thefts.

Residents should make use of the following tips to ensure they do not fall victim to crime during the festive season:

Burglaries:

· Ask a family member, friend or neighbour to keep an eye over your place.

· Make sure delivered post is removed from your post box weekly.

· Have the lawn mowed at least once a week especially in front of your premises.

· Install proper lights to ensure the property is well lit during night time.

· Install a reliable alarm system with perimeter beams linked to an armed response company.

· Dogs are an effective way to ensure you receive an early warning when intruders want to enter your premises.

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· Have your panic button at hand when you are at home.

· The best defence system is your senses, to be alert will ensure you’re not caught off guard.

· Know the emergency numbers for your area, preferably keep it near the telephone.

· Build good relations with your neighbours on all sides of your property.

· Ensure your neighbours are informed of when you will be on holiday and when you will return and whether anyone will be allowed access to your premises during your absence.

· Regularly communicate suspicious activities, vehicles, or persons, etc, with your neighbours and help prevent a possible crime from being committed.

· Get involved with your local CPF (community police forum) and sector policing to help prevent crime.

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Theft of gate motors:

· Secure your gate motor by installing a gate motor security bracket. Various types are available and are relatively affordable compared to the replacement cost of a new gate motor.

Theft out of, theft of and theft from motor vehicle:

· Never leave any valuable items locked in your vehicle, especially in plain sight and never place any valuable items in your trunk while onlookers are around, rather do so where nobody can see.

· Ensure all doors are securely locked before you step away from your vehicle.

· Ensure the vehicles’ locking mechanism is activated by attempting to open a door before walking away.

· Make use of shopping malls that have proper access control, security guards on patrol and anti-jamming warning systems.

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Theft of and out of handbags:

· Never leave your handbag unattended while shopping or sitting down at a restaurant (not even for a few seconds).

· Rather only take your bank card when shopping or eating out than leaving your handbag unattended.

Garsfontein station commander Colonel Kervin Solomons thanked the community for their ongoing support and efforts in assisting the police to reduce crime in the precinct.

He urged residents to remain vigilant.

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