Beware the burglars' codes...
2007-04-16 21:34
Johannesburg - The colour of the litter on the pavement outside your house could contain clues that your home is being staked out by burglars, according to an insurance firm's website.
A green object, such as a beer bottle, could be a signal to thieves to "go ahead, the coast is clear", whereas a red object, such as a Coca-Cola can, could be a sign to "steer well clear".
Removing litter from outside the door is just one on a list of tips from local insurance provider Outsurance on how to outsmart wily criminals.
The company recommends that homeowners bolt their electronic gadgets, such as televisions, computers and CD players together or secure them to shelves or wall brackets, making them more difficult to transport.
Plastic guttering recommended
Laying gravel around the home could amplify the sound of footsteps, is one tip they give.
Another is that you refrain from putting your name on a letterbox or gate as this can prevent thieves from looking you up in the phonebook and calling to check whether anyone is home, says the firm.
It also notes that plastic pipes and gutters are more likely to break under the weight of a burglar, and doors, windows and entrances that are clear of shrubs would prevent robbers from lurking there.
In the 12 months to March last year, 10 173 burglaries were reported. - Sapa-dpa
- SAPA