Loadshedding: Criminals like lurking in the dark

Alarms and beams are not fully operational when there is a power failure. Captain Kym Cloete, spokesperson for the Sandton police has issued the following tips to residents:

•  Sitting outside in the dark with a candle is easily seen when there is no other light in the area. Be careful when doing this as you can unknowingly be seen by criminals.

•  Ensure that when you are inside your residence, doors that are left open are the ones protected by burglar doors. Candlelight from inside the house highlights open doors and windows.

•  Ensure that you know the local sector patrol vehicle’s cellphone number. If you hear a disturbance during load shedding, or your dog barking, do not go out in the dark, contact the patrol vehicle.

•  Before entering your driveway when it is dark, drive slowly with your bright lights on to ascertain whether anyone is loitering in the street. If you see something suspicious, keep driving and alert the local patrol vehicle.

•  Be alert at intersections which are affected by load shedding. Be alert to loitering men at intersections and report suspicious activity to the local patrol vehicle.