Residents can play an important part in preventing home robberies by taking simple, precautionary measures:
• Know all emergency numbers.
• Don’t leave your gates, garage, front or back door open or partially open. Windows, especially those facing the street, should be closed, even during warm weather.
• Never open the door automatically whenever the bell rings or if someone knocks.
Domestic workers, garden staff and children are often approached by robbers who act as delivery men, repairmen, electricians, plumbers, a TV licence or municipality inspectors and many other professions. To gain entrance, robbers use a cellphone and make it as if they are talking to the owner of the house to put pressure on unsuspecting victims to open the gate or door. Those remaining at home should be made aware of these scams. Arrange with people who remain at home how you will inform them if there is a need for them to open the house for deliveries, maintenance work or repairs. Always use the same procedure and inform the companies involved they will not gain access unless you have made a specific arrangement.
• A dog is a good early warning system, especially small dogs kept inside the house at night. Large dogs should be visible as a deterrent, but beyond the reach of strangers. The unexplainable death of a dog is a warning sign of possible burglary or robbery.
• If your house alarm goes off, you hear strange noises or your dogs bark, switch on the outside lights.
• Always check the identity of strangers who visit for business purposes to do deliveries or repairs. Ensure you stay out of their reach to prevent being grabbed through a closed gate.
• When employing someone, request their identity document and make a copy thereof for safekeeping. Check their previous employment references and do security clearances at the police.
• Instal the best security you can afford, especially security gates on outside doors. Keep these gates locked. If possible, fix a door viewer and latch chain.
• When approaching your house entrance, ensure it is safe to enter and that you have not been followed. Be aware of persons loitering at the entrance. Do not leave keys in a hidden place for domestic staff or children. Robbers often stake out a house and will find out about these hiding places. Do not give keys to people who do not live on the property or to anyone if it is not absolutely necessary.
• Know your neighbours and build a relationship of mutual trust and support. When going away, inform them.
• It is always best to arrange with persons living in the same street as you to be ready at all times to come to the rescue of one another in dangerous or suspicious times. Exchange phone numbers or signalling methods when you find yourself in distress. Your strength always lies in how many people can support you in an emergency.
• If you buy luxury goods, cut up the boxes and dispose of these in tied black bags, as a branded box is a telltale sign of what robbers could find in your house.
• Keep cash and valuables in banks or safes.
• Store your firearms in a safe.
Suspicious-looking people, vehicles and activities must be reported to the police immediately.
For emergencies or to report a crime, call 10111 or the Springs Police Station on 011 365 5700.
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