As reported cases of house break-ins in the Table View precinct have seen an increase in recent weeks, residents are urged to take the necessary safety precautions.
Table View police spokesperson Capt Adriana Chandler says a high fence around the house with lockable gates is much safer than a high wall due to the advantage of the improved visibility it provides.
“The primary aim of the fence is to make access/intrusion difficult and to allow dogs to move freely around the house. Ensure that your gates are locked at all times and that the keys cannot be reached easily or are not lying around uncontrolled. Security gates with sturdy locks in front of each outer door as well as burglar proofing covering all windows are recommended,” Chandler says.
The following devices prevent easy access:
- window bars;
- security doors;
- security gates;
- razor wire;
- additional locking devices on doors;
- strengthening of doors;
- peepholes in the doors;
- safety chains to doors and
- an intercom system between the home and gate, front door or garage.
Chandler is urging the community to ensure that doors are locked at all times and that windows are closed when you are not at home.
“Large dogs serve as a deterrent. At least one dog should be trained to sleep inside the house.
If you leave your residence, inform your family or neighbours of your intended destination, time you expect to return and the route you will be driving, especially if you reside in a rural area. Ensure that tools such as axes, spades, picks and ladders that can be used in an attack, are locked away when you do not use them,” she says.
Chandler has pointed out the following safety tips:
- Vary your daily routine. Get into the habit of not immediately falling asleep after switching off the lights.
- Remain awake for a while. You should not be visible in the bedroom from the outside when you are asleep.
- If you are unsure about the security status of your home after returning from work or a visit, or your dogs do not come to the gate, do not enter your home.
- Contact your neighbour to assist you in securing your home.
- Report suspicious behaviour and information to the South African Police Service.
- Clear the areas around the gates of bushes and other hiding places. Do not allow strangers onto your premises or in your house without having properly identified the person, especially at night.
- Identify keys by means of codes instead of indicating in writing on labels to which gate/door access can be gained.
- Keys to the safe must be kept on the person. Never hide any keys in traditional places, such as in pot plants or under doormats.
- Keys in the keyhole on the inside of the front or back door should be turned to avoid easy removal. Never allow strangers to handle keys or look at key numbers.
