The community is urged to take precautionary measures:
- Keep all the windows in your vehicle closed, and the doors locked while stationary at an intersection
- Keep valuable items out of sight
- Leave a space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you, it gives you space to move should you feel threatened
- Don’t talk on your cell phone, if you are distracted you can be seen as a potential easy target
- If approached by a stranger while in your car, drive off if possible and/or use your hooter to attract attention.
- Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious looking characters or vehicles and do not hesitate to report them to the Police.
- Always be on the alert for potential danger, and be on the lookout for possible escape routes and safe refuge along the way.
- If your suspicions are aroused by any person or vehicle in a high-risk area, treat it as hostile and take appropriate action (i.e. Ignore a red robot if it is safe to drive through; turn off and speed away from the perceived danger zone) and call for assistance where necessary.
- Always have your identity document and driver’s license on your person; and a pen and notepad ready to make necessary notes.
- If possible, avoid driving in the dark. Hijackers may stage a minor accident; e.g. If your car is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual/s involved in the situation, drive to the nearest Police Station for help.
- Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger. If a suspicious person is near your unoccupied car, do not approach the vehicle. Keep walking to the nearest public area and ask for assistance.
Residential Robbery and residential burglary continues to be a problem, so please ensure that you observe all necessary safety measures to protect yourself and your belongings. In many cases entry is gained by simply walking through open doors – after jumping fences or de-railing gates. Be aware when entering or leaving your property. Do not enter if there are unknown cars or pedestrians about – always wait until the area is clear before entering your property. Do not reverse out of your driveway as you then become extremely vulnerable – rather exit your property in a forward-drive mode.
Historically all the above crimes can increase just prior to the Easter Holiday Season so be especially careful at this time. If going away, please ensure that your alarms are fully set and that you have taken all necessary ‘holiday’ precautions.