With the festive season upon us, local police would like to issue the following safety tips to prevent members of the public falling prey to criminals.
They suggest:. Park in a well-lit part of the centre and check what’s going on around you before getting out. If you’re on foot, keep away from dark, quiet areas.. Prevent car jamming. Check that your car is locked before walking off and try the door handle to make sure.. Do not leave your handbag and cellphone inside the trolley. Carry your bag/purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front pocket. Wallets are safest in your front pocket. Never, never, never put your purse down as it’s able to be quickly taken.. Use a credit or debit card instead of cash when possible. If you do carry cash, don’t carry too much. . Cellphone security. Make sure your phone is fully charged and don’t get distracted by messages and texting because this makes you an easy target. Be careful using wi-fi in public places because some hotspots don’t encrypt wireless data and this could lead to identity theft. Hide your pin code entry with your free hand.. If you are shopping with children, make a plan in case you are separated from each other. Teach them to ask the store personnel or security for help if they should need it.. Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. . Check the back seat before getting in.
Do not leave packages visible in your car windows, as it might lead to smash and grab.. Lock your groceries in the boot or take it home. You’ll have less to worry about and be less of a target. . Be on your guard with friendly strangers. They could be scam artists taking advantage of your natural politeness.
Con artists try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
Emergency numbers:
South African Police Service 10111
Crime Stop (report criminal activity anonymously) 08600 10111
Atlantis police station
021 571 8500 / 082 411 3317
Mobile phone emergency number: 112
Sector Commander contact details
Sector 1: Warrant officer van Rooyen (Mamre, Pella, surrounding farms and Saxonsea): 079 894 1212
Sector 2: Warrant officer D Abrahams (Robinvale, Beacon Hill, Ext 12): 079 894 0150
Sector 3: Sergeant Dirks (Wesfleur, Avondale, Industrial Area): 078 261 1233
Sector 4: Warrant officer De Kock (Protea Park and Witsand): 082 411 1787
Rural: Sergeant Barry for all farms near Witsand and on the Silverstream Road: 079 894 0153
