Page 7 - Fourways Gardens April Issue 2025

SAFETY AND SECURITY

ARE EVERYBODY’S

RESPONSIBILITY

any South Africans choose to live in residential
estates, deeming them safer than stand-alone
residences. However, this perception can be
Mmisleading as crime statistics escalate and
criminals become more brazen and innovative. Photo by wang ward on Unsplash

One of the most common inhibitors of estate security is
complacency on the part of homeowners and residents. Often,
the high walls and guarded access points create a false sense Vehicle safety tips in public spaces
of security that results in residents neglecting to take basic Incidents of vehicle theft and theft out of vehicles continue to rise.
steps to secure their homes, such as locking doors, closing 24/7 Security Services urges vehicle owners to take the necessary
windows, installing (and arming!) alarm systems, and ensuring precautions when driving and parking in public spaces.
that gardens are illuminated to limit concealment. These are • Avoid parking your vehicle where no security officers or car guards
all standard measures for stand-alone homes and should be are present.
equally so for homes within estates. • Ensure that the doors, windows, and boot are properly closed
and locked before you walk away. Always double-check to avoid
24/7 Security Services urge residents to remain alert as each remote car jamming.
individual plays a part in combatting crime: • Close your windows when driving in busy areas.
• Do not rely on perimeter security alone. While perimeter • Do not open your windows for hawkers along the road or at an
security measures have successfully driven down crime in intersection.
estates, residents must take precautions in their homes. • When driving, keep the doors locked and the windows closed at
• Be sure to lock doors and windows and ensure vehicles are all times.
locked - even when parked in a garage. • Avoid displaying anything valuable, such as a handbag, briefcase,
• Test alarms and panic buttons regularly. watch, cell phone or laptop, in full view on the seats. Instead, lock
• Conduct thorough reference checks of domestic workers and your valuables in the boot.
gardeners. • Familiarise yourself with your route before embarking on your trip.
• Report suspicious people, vehicles and behaviour. • Always be vigilant and observe your area. If you notice something
• Be alert when entering and exiting the estate. suspicious when parking your vehicle at a shopping mall, report it
to security or the centre management.

Cybersecurity safety: Cell phones

Considering how much we rely on our cell phones and how • Only install apps from trusted sources.
susceptible they are to attack, you’ll want to make sure you are • Keep the device’s operating system up to date.
protected: • Avoid transmitting or storing personal information on the device.
• Lock your device with a PIN or password - and never leave it • Don’t click on links or attachments from unsolicited emails or
unprotected in public. texts.

SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING

Please report all security-related matters immediately, without delay.

A delay in reporting = a delay in resolution.

On-site Control Contact details:
011 465 5466 or 066 261 7671

Fourways Gardens • 5 • April 2025