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compared to last year is welcome.
While the assurance that the police will be out in full force to ensure that everyone, whether resident and visitor, has a good season is great, we feel that the public should also play their part in ensuring that festive season crimes are kept at a minimum.
There are a few general rules that everyone should observe thereby making the job of the police much easier.
Traffic accidents caused by defective vehicles and negligent or drunk drivers are one of the most worrying statistics of holiday crimes.
The Commissioner-General pleaded with public transport operators to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy. They should also avoid overworking their crews.
This is not about avoiding fines imposed by the police but about human lives. No one should place profits above the welfare of the people. Passengers should not abet road crimes by urging transport crews to speed, overload and stop at dangerous spots.
We urge all drivers not to drink and drive. If you must drink then make arrangements to have a sober driver even if it means leaving your own vehicle and using a cab.
Avoid driving at night as you are more likely to be a target for hijackers at night rather than during the day. Drunken drivers also tend to be on the road then.
Even when not driving getting over-intoxicated is something that people should avoid as they become easy targets for muggers, pickpockets and rapists.
Cars should be secured at all times. Do not drive around with your windows down and doors unlocked especially at night. Parked cars should always be locked with no valuables left lying around in visible places.
Everyone should take all relevant measures to safeguard their properties from burglars who increase their activities at this time.
If you have not already done so make a list of all the serial numbers of your valuables such as electric gadgets.
If you should be the victim of crime the serial numbers will be invaluable in proving ownership should any of the stolen goods be recovered.
We are all our brothers’ keepers and neighbours should watch out for each other. If you notice anything odd going on in your area notify other residents and the police.
Exchange contact numbers with your neighbours so that if you ever need emergency aid you can call the people who are physically close to your home.
If you are having a function and some of your guests are forced to park outside the premises make arrangements to have a guard watching the cars.
Houses and offices should not be left vacant at any given point but especially overnight. If you are going away make arrangements to have a responsible and trustworthy person house sitting.
Even if you are going to be away for just a few hours at night you should not leave the house uninhabited.
When at home keep the gate secured. At night close all windows and lock all doors before retiring for the night. If you have an electronic alarm system keep it on and do not carry the security code in your wallet or phone or any other place where it can easily be accessed by another person.
If you cannot afford an electronic alarm you should use other alternatives like guard dogs and noisy objects like cans placed at strategic points where a burglar is likely to bump into them and alert you.
And remember that just because a person is your domestic worker, relative or friend that does not mean they are not a criminal. Having a neighbour keep an eye on the house sitter will help deter criminals.
Even though this is the time to show goodwill to all mankind that does not mean that you should invite any chance acquaintance into your vehicle or home. Maintain a prudent distrust for all strangers.
Keep your bank cards and other valuables in a safe place and do not move around with them unless you really know that you are going to need them.
Thieves seem to sense when you have something that they can take and that is when they will strike.
Lastly, we have seen the disturbing trend of child kidnapping rising and even in the middle of celebrations parents, guardians and caregivers should make sure that they keep a very close watch on all children.