Residents are urged to remain vigilant about home security following a recent spike in opportunistic crime during lockdown.
“We have received numerous reports of theft of electronic devices such as cellphones from joggers, walkers and cyclists, and even laptops and iPads through open windows and/or unlocked doors,” explained Charnel Hattingh, national marketing, and communications manager at Fidelity ADT.
Opportunistic thieves are aware that families will be working remotely from home and that children are continuing with online schooling via electronic devices.
As such these criminals will be on the lookout for easy opportunities to take advantage of vulnerable properties.
“The best defence against burglars, opportunistic thieves or armed robbers 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.
With families at home, there are cars in the driveway, bicycles, toys and tools in the garden and often doors, windows and security gates are left open.
All these things appeal to criminals and your home could be targeted during the day or night.
Hattingh said just this week one of the reaction officers caught a suspect who stole two children’s bikes out of a garage in a house in Mayberry Park, Alberton.
“He was casually walking down the road, pushing one on top of each other, when he was caught by our officer.
“Last week, unfortunately, we had a couple of more serious cases where cyclists were stabbed and joggers were mugged for their valuables,” she said.
“Keep your security gates locked at all times and ensure the keys are removed.
“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,” added Hattingh.
Get the whole family involved in security and ensure they know where the panic buttons are, how to use them, and who to phone in an emergency.
Also, remain alert when out during the designated times of 6 am and 9 am and ensure all valuables are well covered.
“Tightening up small vulnerabilities can amount to a huge relief when it comes to home and personal security. Remain vigilant and do not leave anything to chance during a lockdown,” Hattingh concluded.
Issued on behalf of Fidelity ADT
