Basic security precautions when you live in a remote area

Do the following to ensure safety and security in remote areas:

• Know your neighbours and maintain good relations with them.
• Know which security services and community-based crime prevention initiatives are available in your area, and know how to reach them in case of an emergency.
• Have the contact details of the security companies, community-based watches, emergency services and the police station, readily available.
• Have alternative means of communication in case the telephone lines and cellular phones are not working.
• Become part of the crime prevention programmes initiated by the South African Police Service, and the community.
• Have sound relationships with all role players involved, and know who to contact in case of an emergency.
• Consider establishing a neighbourhood watch in your area, or become involved in the existing neighbourhood watch.
• Participate in simulation exercises with the South African Police Service to test the effectiveness of the response to incidents.
• Maintain sound safety measures and habits at home, and inform your neighbours, the South African Police Service and the community-based watches of any suspicious behaviour and activities in your area.
• Ensure that all doors (including security and garage doors), are locked at all times, and that windows are closed when you are inside or not at home.
• Keep a register with the details of all persons on the premises, including workers, and do not allow unnecessary access to the premises.
• Regularly clear the area around your house of bushes and clean the premises and all possible hiding places. Lock away all tools and implements.
• Be vigilant and ensure that all persons on the premises, including workers and visitors, are also vigilant and know what to do in case of suspicious behaviour and/or an emergency.
• Do not react blindly to any suspicious activities, especially not at night.
• Do not keep a large sum of cash and/or valuables on the premises.
• Ensure that additional safety measures have been implemented if you are selling any products from the premises.