According to the SAPS 2012/2013 statistics, residential burglaries have increased by 3.3% during the last financial year. The provinces that are the most prone to burglaries are the Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Northern Cape.
And even though Chief of Police, Riah Phiyega, says the crime in South Africa is ‘under control’, we cannot deny that there is an obvious problem, and we need to be able to take care of ourselves and loved ones in the best, and smartest way possible.
So, here’s a round-up of a few things you can do to make your home a bit safer.
Think about how secure your home really is
Have you assessed its weak points? Is your house secure from the border of your property all the way in? Do you have enough light around your home? Burglar bars? Read more about securing your home here
Protect your home from break-ins
If you’re going on holiday, get a neighbour to use your bin. Get automatic timers, or get someone to house-sit. If you have an alarm, put the security signage in obvious places around the outside of your home so potential burglars can see you’re not an easy target. Read more about breaking down break-ins here
Think like a burglar
How do you outsmart a criminal? Think like them. As they say in the movies, case out the joint. Try all the access points. Clear up any garden furniture that could aid them in breaking into your house. Got new neighbours? Walk over and introduce yourself. Offer to watch their place if they watch yours. Read more about outsmarting burglars here