DURBAN - Charnel Hattingh, head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT, said Human Rights Month should refocus on efforts to make people safer, considering the crime statistics that Police Minister Bheki Cele last month described as “worryingly stubborn”.
Hattingh said all South Africans should commit themselves to a collective effort as March reminds the country of its hard-won human rights and the importance of protecting them.
“One of the rights we enjoy is the right to safety. If you look at the police crime statistics released a few weeks ago, it becomes apparent that much more can be done to keep people safe.
“We cannot realistically expect to drive crime out of our communities if we do not all work together. The starting point must be to make sure your family and your neighbours are safe,” said Hattingh.
She said this would require proper security measures to be installed and tested regularly while also deterring unwanted visitors. Hattingh urged people to report all incidents of crime to the police no matter how big or small.
“Once you have put the system in place, then turn your attention to your neighbours and other people in your street. Make sure you share contact details and keep an eye on each other’s homes.
“Police and security companies rely heavily on accurate information on crime trends, to deploy resources in an effective and efficient manner. Even if you are not planning to claim from insurance if someone broke into your parked car for example, please still let the police know,” said Hattingh.
Hattingh further urged that the entire month be used to give thought to what could be done better or differently in order to stay safe.
Daily News