At the group’s annual domestic training session, Gila Klatzkin and tactical officer David Solo provided domestic workers, employers and children with tips to improve safety for the whole community.
The majority of crimes confronting CAP, according to Solo, are home invasions and opportunistic crimes such as driveway robberies and hijackings. Training sessions such as this one attempt to improve security for those community members likely to be on the streets and in suburban houses on week days, as well being able to access information about planned crimes.
With a presence in 18 Johannesburg suburbs, the group takes a proactive approach to safety, and regards anyone visiting, living or working in its areas as a client, said Klatzkin. Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity, or simply feels unsafe, is encouraged to call CAP. All information is confidential and anonymous, and the group offers rewards for tip-offs.
“No matter how small you think it is, we want you to call us,” said Klatzkin.
Upon phoning the group’s call centre, be prepared to answer questions about the situation. According to Klatzkin, your location, details of a suspect’s clothing, stolen items, the direction in which the suspect fled, and details of suspicious vehicles help responders find a criminal.
Be aware of the primary ways in which criminals operate, Klatzkin added. Opportunistic crimes occur as residents enter or leave houses, or walk in the street. Criminals follow community members from shops, banks or ATMs, targeting individuals carrying valuable items. Finally, planned crimes often involve information gathering and surveillance, through observing a targeted house and questioning residents.
To ensure residents’ safety, Klatzkin and Solo advised that valuables be hidden, and people should be aware of suspicious activity as they walk in the street, should keep doors and gates locked at home, and carry a panic button at all times. Never open the door to unidentified or unexpected visitors, and on hearing a noise or seeing suspicious activity, residents should lock themselves in a room and call CAP, Klatzkin concluded.
Details: www.capgroup.org.za; 0860 332 332
