The festive can be fun, relaxing and a time to spend with people you love, however, it can also be dangerous as criminals target those who let their guard down.
The Plainsman asked Mitchell’s Plain leaders for their advice to the community during this time.
Ward 81 councillor Ashley Potts said one should make time to do things with loved ones and cherish these moments as it isn’t always possible when life gets busy in the year.
“The roads may be busy and the commercial decree will only cause a drain to your pocket whilst time together will allow for lasting memories and time of refreshing to help us refuel,” he said.
Mr Potts said while councillors will be on recess, the ward offices all round will continue to operate except for Monday December 25, Tuesday December 26 to Sunday December 31 and Monday January 1, 2024.
It’s encouraged that residents be safe on the roads and be alert. “Don’t drink and drive and make sure your vehicle is in a roadworthy state. To those staying home, please be considerate to your neighbours and reduce your noise levels at appropriate times. If you find those not being considerate, please call 021 480 7700 and hold onto the reference number,” he said.
“Thanks to all our residents for their patronage and for getting involved throughout the year to be a part of the change. There is still much to do and I have every bit of confidence that if we continue working together, we will soon see a likeness of the community,” he said.
Sandy Schuter, Strandfontein Community Police Forum chairwoman, said residents should watch out for bank scams especially the elderly.
“If contacted by any person claiming to be from any financial institution, please don’t give any personal details telephonically. Don’t walk with your valuables in your hand, especially when commuting to and from work. Be careful when parking off at beaches especially at night as it is dangerous and vehicle theft can occur.”
Ms Schuter said Strandfontein CPF would like to thank the volunteer patrollers for their sacrifices throughout the year. “We wish the community happy festivities and please take extra precautionary safety measures around your house and know where your children are to avoid missing person situations,” she said.
Byron De Villiers, chairperson of Lentegeur CPF, agreed in saying not to accept help at ATMs. “This can increase in hijacking, business robberies and teenagers going missing.”
“Lentegeur CPF wishes all essential services well over the festive season and also a big thank you to our community structures for their efforts throughout the years. Wishing our communities well and a prosperous new year. Enjoy and be safe,” he said.
Charmaine Adams, chairperson of the Tafelsig West sub-forum, said pensioners shouldn’t go to shops alone as thieves monitor this.
“Avoid deserted places especially at night. Make sure all doors are locked and windows are closed at night or when going out. Look out for suspicious characters in your street; they monitor those houses to break in,” she said.
“Wishing the community a safe and peaceful festive season,” she said.
Mr Potts said for any municipal queries, contact 086 010 3089 and 021 480 7700/112 for emergencies. The Ward 81 WhatsApp number will also be attended to during working hours should residents need assistance, on 064 545 6576 or email Courtney.Carstens@capetown.org.za.
Ms Schuter will be available for any assistance, however, to report crime, residents have to call SAPS first on 10111. Contact Ms Schuter on WhatsApp on 071 947 8294.
Contact Mr De Villiers via email on Lentegeur.cpf@gmail.com or 071 449 5496.
Tafelsig West residents can contact Ms Adams on WhatsApp on 084 218 3123 or 083 473 6546.
