Following the recent lock-down of most states of the federation, millions of individuals are jobless and so having a hard time, which explains why security experts have predicted possible rise in crimes, especially armed robbery, theft and even kidnapping.
As motorists, who are also self-isolating at home at the moment, there is need for necessary precautionary measures to secure your loved ones, homes and properties:
On Transit
Whether you are on essential service or have cause to drive round town for shopping or for any emergency, please endeavour to take the following precautions:
Try as much as possible to get home while it’s still light outside
Be observant of vehicles and individuals around you
Reduce the use of mobile phones, tablets and laptops in traffic (especially if you do not have tinted glasses)
Do not keep bags, wallets or any valuable item on the chair. This also applies when parking in a public place.
Keep your car doors locked at all times. This also applies when parking in a public place
While driving home, lookout for cars following you, look out for cars parked too close to your gate, watch out for unfamiliar individuals in your neighbourhood.
Do not allow your drivers/gatemen know your travel/daily itinerary
Do not make unscheduled stops in questionable areas. If you have a flat tyre, manage the car to a properly lit place. Worst case scenario is that the rim (which usually costs between N10,000 and N100,000) gets damaged.
At Home
Ensure proper lighting.
Ensure doors and gates are properly locked at night. Never lock a gate using a padlock from outside at night.
Those with security fences, ensure they work
If you can get CCTV systems in place, please do (The fear of being caught is often one of the greatest deterrents to crime).
Be aware of your surroundings. Take note of parked cars, individuals loitering, etc
Those in estates, ensure you have an emergency response plan (what happens if you or your neighbours are under attack? do you have a way of rapidly alerting the estate security?).
If your car has an alarm system, always sleep with the remote by your bedside. If you have cause to suspect that someone is trying to forcefully gain entrance into your home, activate the alarm. In a residential environment, this is usually very loud and hopefully will scare the criminals away.
While you maintain social distancing, you can still be your neighbours’ keeper. Look out for them. If you have information or observe something that can help, please speak to them on phone or via social media..
