Do you want to get inside the mind of a criminal? After decades of elevated crime in South Africa, experts have established many common behaviours. Here are nine that you should be aware of.
1. They observe your routine
If you have a set routine throughout the week—and most of us do—criminals will learn this information and use it to burglarise your home at an opportune time. If possible, switch up your routine every few days to confuse them.
2. They identify what you own
When you’re not at home—especially at night—keep your living room and bedroom curtains closed. Criminals will usually try and gather what you own and where in the house it is. This helps them to get in and out of your home faster.
3. They signal each other
There are multiple underground crime signals used by SA criminals. These are usually in the form of chalk drawings or litter items. Learn what these signals are and take pre-emptive measures to counteract this underground form of communication.
4. They hide in close proximity
When you approach the gate entrance of your home at night, put your bright lights on and make sure you actively look for anyone hiding behind a tree or a wall. You don’t want someone jumping out at you once your car door is open.
5. They take advantage of weak security
Do you know where the weak points in your security lie? Consider getting CCTV for your property. Not only will this deter criminals from breaking in, but if they do you will know how they did it.
6. They poison your dogs
Train your dogs not to take food from strangers. Alternatively, lock your dogs up in another section of your home. Dogs are for warning you of suspicious activity, so protect them from being poisoned.
7. They break in through small spaces
Keep your windows closed so that criminals can’t get in through small spaces. Some even use children to slip through your burglar bars.
8. They act fast
A break-in is usually a well-timed event that takes less than 10 minutes. Don’t think that your 15-minute trip to the shop is an excuse not to lock up.
9. They are quiet
When criminals enter your property, they are extremely quiet. Add security lights to your property so that sensors will warn you when sound cannot.