FOLLOWING a recent spike in opportunistic crime along the South Coast, a local security company has urged residents to remain vigilant when it comes to home and personal security.
“We have received recent reports of housebreakings, fence jumpers and theft of items left out in gardens in Uvongo, Shelley Beach and Margate. Thieves are targeting unoccupied holiday homes and are using ladders and tools found inside the property to break in,” explained the head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT, Charnel Hattingh.
Hattingh noted that opportunistic thieves were always on the lookout for easy opportunities and would take advantage of vulnerable properties.
“The best defence against burglars and opportunistic thieves 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,” said Hattingh.
Refrain from leaving bicycles, toys and tools in the garden and never leave doors, windows or security gates open, said Hattingh.
“Keep your security gates locked at all times and ensure the keys are removed. Ensure your yard has sufficient lighting and 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,” she added.
Tightening up small vulnerabilities can amount to a huge relief when it comes to home security.
“Remain vigilant and do not leave anything to chance,” Hattingh urged.
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