As the temperature drops, most South Africans will be indoors to keep warm, but the longer nights provide cover for criminals to operate under a cloak of darkness.

Manhar Parshotam, security expert and co-founder of Dragon Protection Services, said with reduced visibility, perpetrators find it easier to carry out home and business burglaries, motor vehicle thefts, and petty crimes such as stealing items from outside homes.

Dragon Protection Services has observed a notable uptick in criminal activities across various regions in the country, prompting a call for heightened vigilance and proactive security measures.

“With the onset of winter, we typically witness a spike in criminal incidents in South Africa. Residents must be extra cautious and take necessary precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their properties during this vulnerable time.”

“It is also vital for business owners to heighten security at their premises, which are often targeted on cold winter nights,” said Parshotam.

Economic hardships faced by many during the winter season can also drive first-time offenders to desperate measures. “Rising unemployment rates may push some into a life of crime. The harsh conditions of winter can exacerbate feelings of desperation and hopelessness, leading to an uptick in criminal behaviour. Often first-time offenders target gardening tools and other items from outside homes and business premises.”

“This could eventually lead to a home invasion or break-in at business premises as they would have had an opportunity to observe the weaknesses in security systems during their initial petty crime,” said Parshotam. Petty criminals also target residential properties for copper in the dead of winter nights.

“These petty criminals, usually local drug users, scope properties during the day to gather information to steal taps, copper wiring, locks and whatever they can get their hands on while the household is asleep. Their criminal activities can escalate to targeting business premises that are not adequately guarded at night,” said Parshotam.

Criminals also take advantage of the longer dark hours in winter to go after vehicles. “Vehicle theft is on the rise in SA. While the cloak of darkness offers criminals the perfect conditions to steal a vehicle, vehicle theft is just as prevalent during the day. Therefore, car owners are urged to ensure their vehicles are fitted with an efficient tracking unit, and that they are vigilant,” said Parshotam.

Parshotam further emphasised the importance of implementing comprehensive security measures to deter criminals and safeguard against potential threats. “South Africans can choose from advanced alarm systems and surveillance cameras to professional security patrols and rapid response services. A range of solutions is designed to enhance safety and peace of mind for residents and businesses alike,” said Parshotam.

He urged residents to stay informed, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities to help prevent and address criminal incidents effectively.

Some tips to keep safe this winter:

Be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas when outdoors and try to schedule your trips before sunset. Inform others of your plans when going out, such as your spouse or a parent.

Upgrade your security system to ensure it is up to date with the latest technology, including motion detectors, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems. Install motion-sensor lights around the perimeter of your property to deter potential intruders, and make sure walkways and entry points are well-lit. Maintain visibility by trimming back shrubs and trees that could provide cover for criminals, or those that block lights and sensors.

Lock up outdoor tools and keep valuables out of sigh, do not tempt petty criminals to target your home. Keep garage doors closed and locked, consider installing a garage door alarm or motion detector.

Lastly, be vigilant. If you are walking to school or work, pay attention. Do not use headphones, take a call on your cell phone, or be distracted. This also applies to joggers and cyclists.