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ILONA Szabo from Suzuki JHB South invites residents of the South to dedicate February to cleaning up the community and becoming leaders who work well with others to secure a healthy environment.
Start with your own clean-up and take note that crime is less likely to occur when a neighbourhood is clean, well-lit and frequented by people.
“By cleaning up we will be making the territory less attractive to criminals and more attractive to the community, which makes the community safer. A clean and attractive community is not only a more pleasant place, but the value of the good impression it makes on prospective employers, professionals and others who visit our community should never be underestimated.
“Whatever your site, establish goals for a clean-up. Has all the trash been picked up? Do new trash cans need to be installed? Will fresh paint liven up your area? Do you need to paint over graffiti? What about cutting underbrush, pruning bushes and trees, or planting flowers?” asked Ilona.
Quick clean-up checklist:
1) Is your area attractively landscaped with trees and shrubs and lawns mowed and maintained?
2) Is your street clean?
3) Do you have adequate refuse containers and are refuse areas clean and well kept?
4) Are waste receptacles conveniently located in your business districts and emptied regularly?
5) Are dead trees properly removed from your area?
6) Do you have vacant lots and unoccupied areas that are mowed and kept free of weeds and litter?
7) Are your storefronts attractive?
8) Are your sidewalks in good repair?
“People with a sincere desire to improve their community are worth a hundred professionals and helping hands are the most important ingredient for a successful outcome,” Ilona concluded.
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