Neighbourhood watch for dummies
Helderkloof Neighbourhood Watch answers questions on why it is to their advantage to join a neighbourhood watch.
Crime is on the increase according to Gary Colling, Chairperson of the Helderkloof Neighbourhood Watch (HKNW).
“We really need the residents’ help as crime has increased drastically in the Helderkruin/ Kloofendal areas since the beginning of the year,” says Colling.
“Just this week we had a burglary where someone was seriously injured, a car break-in at a crèche on Ouklip Road and an attempted car theft at Laerskool Helderkruin. The problem is that both Ontdekkers and Wilgerood Roads are easy exits for criminals,” he explains.
He goes on to say that in “February alone there were 36 incidents of which 46 per cent were burglaries and 23 per cent were motor vehicle thefts.
“Studies show that residents who are involved in neighbourhood watches are four times less likely to be burgled.
“Citizens who are members of a neighbourhood watch are in a greater position to watch out for each other. It is all about participating in preventing criminal activity before it happens.
“Members also are taught to make their houses less attractive for thieves,” says Colling.
He says that it only costs R50 per month to join their neigbourhood watch, HKNW, and emphasises that it is a myth that you have to patrol if you are a member.
To join HKNW, residents can phone Colling on 082 352 7276.
For the full article read next week’s edition of the Record.
