Fidelity ADT is urging residents to be vigilant when socialising. Whether it be at home or out at a restaurant or pub.

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications Manager at Fidelity ADT, urges residents to remember to be security conscious when going out or entertaining at home.

“There have been a number of incidents reported in across the Fidelity ADT footprint, where patrons of a bar or restaurant are being targeted when watching sport.  In our experience, criminals will take an opportunity where they see one. In the last week there were 15 reported incidents. Eight cell phone snatchings, five Motor vehicles stolen at a public establishment and two break-ins at residential properties. “

Various areas across Gauteng have been affected.

The suspects see an opportunity and are quick, in and out within minutes, taking cash out of the register or cellphones, wallets etc. from the people socialising.

Business owners need to be vigilant, make sure their CCTV is working and remain vigilant for any suspicious activity. “We recommend at least two staff members must carry hidden panic buttons at all times. Visitors to these outlets must also be especially vigilant. Generally the suspects are after the till money and not out to rob the customers but it is still a high alert situation.”

When at home: Always keep these security tips in mind when having guests over and entertaining outdoors:

1. No matter how few guests are arriving, never leave the gate open until everyone is inside. Open and close the gate as necessary.
2. If you have a gate intercom system, always first check who is actually at the gate before you open it.
3. It is preferable to let guests park their cars inside your property behind a closed gate. If they have to park in the street, hire a security guard to watch the cars.
4. Open and lock the front security gate only as guests arrive. Never leave the key in the gate.
5. Once everyone has arrived, activate garden beams and/or electric fencing. Both are valuable early-warning systems which will alert you to strangers on the property. For maximum protection, garden beams and electric fencing should be linked to an armed response service.
6. Keep your dogs in close proximity to where you are hosting your party. In other words, do not lock them away in another area of the property where they could easily fall prey to dog poisoners.
7. Ensure good lighting outside at night and that sensor lights are working properly.
8. Make a point of randomly checking doors and security gates are locked and that nobody has used the door and forgotten to lock it again.
9. Activate your alarm in areas of the house you are not using.
10. Keep remote panic buttons close on hand while entertaining outside.