Grapevine Magazine Issue 3 | Page 68

• At night always lock perimeter doors and • Do not leave hidden keys. • Never leave any important documents in your securely fasten windows. When retiring to bed, • Leave your house key with a trusted neighbor car that contains your personal details. lock inter-leading doors of those rooms that are or the key holder so that access can be gained • The only solution for vehicle-related crime is to not occupied. in an emergency. have a tracking system installed in your vehicle. • Do not leave curtains open at night as this • Do not leave only the outside lights on as this allows observation into the house. is usually an indication to would-be intruders The • Do not go outside alone to investigate at night. that the house is not occupied. contacted in case of an emergency and will be Rather switch off all lights and open curtains • Leave lights on and the radio playing as this available 24/7: to allow you to see what is occurring outside gives the impression that the house is occupied. once your eyes have become accustomed This can also be coupled / connected to a time Medical Emergencies: ER24 / 084 124. to the dark. Call security if you note anything delay switch. Electrician / Handyman: suspicious. • If a repair-person is expected, do not allow entry unless identity has been checked through a vision panel or door viewer and you have Other Basic Home Security Preventative Measures following service providers can be Steven Jones: 082 802 7219 Sewerage / Plumber 24/7: Casa Plumbing: 078 920 6491 / 021 855 3035 confirmed with the company concerned. • If your visitors have to park in the street, escort Complete telephone directory with emergency • Do not allow strangers into your home to make them to their car when leaving and check that numbers is available on page 96 telephone calls. Rather offer to make the the road is clear for them. If you have dogs, take telephone calls for them while they wait outside. them with you, especially after dark. We wish all our residents well over this festive • If you note suspicious vehicles, individuals or • Replace fused light bulbs immediately. season and if you are travelling, please do so groups in your neighborhood, contact security • Ensure that the number of your house is safely. or the police immediately. clearly visible at all times. When away from home • If you spot any suspicious activity in your We look forward to seeing everyone again in immediate vicinity, do not leave your property or 2015. hesitate to drive away from it. • Do not leave notes on the door, underneath • When driving, avoid wearing flashy jewelry the carpet or in the post box to indicate that you that can be easily seen from a distance by a are away. casual passer-by. 66 Brett Ashington