People in Cape Town often feel safer than their compatriots in Joburg, when it comes to the risk of being a victim of crime. However, Capetonians still battle with car break-ins.
Stop your car from becoming a break-in statistic
- Put things away before you park – Make sure your valuables are out of sight before you arrive at your destination so no one waiting in the parking lot can see what you’re hiding.
- Don’t leave anything on display – This even includes rubbish. A potential thief walking past may not take the time to assess what is on display and just take a chance.
- Park where other cars are – There’s safety in numbers, so rather go for areas where several other cars are also parked.
- Park in well-lit areas – Thieves can get away with a lot under the cover of darkness. Don’t give them that safety net and find a parking space under a street lamp.
- Get smash-and-grab safety film on your windows – Safety film makes it considerably more difficult to break into a car quickly. The thief will have to hit the window several times in order to get into your car, which takes time and makes a noise.
It’s important to take the time to learn how to keep your vehicle and your valuables safe when you park.
Cape Town attorney Simon Dippenaar is an active member of the SAPS Sea Point Police Forum and takes the safety of the area very seriously. Speak to Simon today about criminal law and your rights.