North West Provincial Police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh has warned residents to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings during this Festive Season as many scammers tend to prowl and take advantage of unsuspecting consumers during this time of the year.
“Most schools have now been closed and families are preparing to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Post left in the mailbox is a sign that nobody is home, ask your neighbour to take it out if you are not there.
“Make sure you have good lighting. Don’t leave the outside lights on during the day. Don’t let too many people know when you are going on holiday, only those whom you trust. Make sure your doors lock properly and that you have burglar bars.
“If your house is broken into, notify the police immediately. And if you are going on a road trip make sure you buckle up, don’t drink and drive and keep a safe following distance, “said Myburgh.
Myburgh further advised motorists to make sure that they have a spare wheel and that it is in good condition with the necessary tools to change a tyre.
To ensure safety while shopping, she has advised shoppers to avoid carrying large amounts of money and shouldn’t leave valuable belongings in the trolley such as a visible wallet or purse.
Those who are members of the stokvel, society or group, have been urged to not withdraw all the money in order to distribute it, but rather pay it into different bank accounts of the participants through an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).
This year’s Safer Festive Season Operations in the North West commenced on Friday, 11 November 2022, and will continue until 31 January 2023 under the theme: “More boots on the ground towards enhanced police visibility.”
Motorists have also been advised not to post their traveling plans on social media and not to share their travel locations as this could endanger their lives.
Shoppers have also been warned not to use ATMs where there are no security guards and to ensure that their cars are locked before they walk away.
