Senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies, Johan Burger, told the Cape Argus newspaper that loadshedding at night influences criminals\u2019 behaviour and increased the likelihood of them breaking into homes (\u201cBlackouts increase risk of crime\u201d, Cape Argus, February 5, 2020.)<\/p>\n
\u201cLaw enforcement and security agencies are on alert to keep residents safe, especially during these extended periods of power disruption.<\/p>
\u201cWe need the cooperation of the public to make sure that we prevent crime as far as possible,\u201d said Charnel Hattingh, national marketing and communications manager at Fidelity ADT.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe too often have to respond to incidents where someone might have installed a brand-new, top of the range home security system, but suffered a theft or break-in because they left one of the house\u2019s windows standing open or forgot to close the garage door.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe presence of sophisticated technology does not mean we can forget our own personal responsibility,\u201d emphasised Hattingh.<\/p>\n
She explained that one of the best ways to make the maximum impact is to be aware of your surroundings.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhether you are driving somewhere, walking in a mall, or going for a run \u2013 make sure you are paying attention, and that you avoid any unnecessary risks. Remove anything from the equation that could distract you, such as headphones or your cellphone,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Hattingh added this level of awareness should also extend to your street and your suburb.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
ALSO READ:<\/span><\/p>\n Avoid becoming a victim of traffic light robbery<\/a><\/p>\n Primrose intersections identified as smash-and-grab hotspots<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u201cIf you see anything that seems to be out of the ordinary or to be amiss, it is best to immediately alert your security company, the local neighbourhood watch, or the police,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n Some safety habits to remember:<\/strong><\/p>\n \u2022 Lock all doors and windows all the time. This applies to your house, your vehicle and any outbuildings on your property. This applie whether you are at home or not.<\/p>\n \u2022 Keep valuable items out of sight. Never leave keys, wallets, cellphones or any other small items on a table or anywhere close to a window.<\/p>\n \u2022 Cut back any trees or shrubs that provide cover for burglars, then make it a habit to keep them trimmed. This means around your house and around any outbuildings someone might be tempted to break into.<\/p>\n \u2022 Talk to your family and friends, and get to know your neighbours. Make sure your loved ones remember what they can do to stay safe, and make sure you share these tips with the people who live in your street.<\/p>\n \u2022 Get involved with community safety efforts. Find out if they need volunteers to do night-time patrols. Communities that stand together can make a positive difference to their safety.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hav<\/strong>e a story?<\/strong><\/p>\n Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor)\u00a0<\/span>germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>or Leigh Hodgson (News Editor)\u00a0<\/span>leighh@caxton.co.za.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Also follow us on:<\/p>\n
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