Fidelity ADT is urging residents of Welkom to be vigilant when socializing. Whether it be at home or out at a restaurant or pub. 

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications Manager at Fidelity ADT, urges residents to remember to be security conscious when going out or entertaining at home.

 “There have been several incidents reported in Welkom, where patrons of a bar or restaurant are being targeted late at night. Usually after 10 pm. In our experience, criminals will take an opportunity when they see one. In the last week, there were 7 reported incidents. Three at a public establishment and four at residential properties. “

The suspects see an opportunity and are quick, in and out within minutes, taking cash out of the register or cellphones, wallets, etc. from the people socializing. 

Business owners need to be vigilant, make sure their CCTV is working, and remain vigilant for any suspicious activity. “We recommend at least two staff members must carry hidden panic buttons at all times. Visitors to these outlets must also be especially vigilant. Generally, the suspects are after the till money and not out to rob the customers but it is still a high alert situation.”

At home: Always keep these security tips in mind when having guests over and entertaining outdoors:

1. No matter how few guests are arriving, never leave the gate open until everyone is inside. Open and close the gate as necessary.

2. If you have a gate intercom system, always first check who is actually at the gate before you open it.

3. It is preferable to let guests park their cars inside your property behind a closed gate. If they have to park in the street, hire a security guard to watch the cars. 

4. Open and lock the front security gate only as guests arrive. Never leave the key in the gate.

5. Once everyone has arrived, activate garden beams and/or electric fencing. Both are valuable early-warning systems that will alert you to strangers on the property. For maximum protection, garden beams and electric fencing should be linked to an armed response service.

6. Keep your dogs near where you are hosting your party. In other words, do not lock them away in another area of the property where they could easily fall prey to dog poisoners.

7. Ensure good lighting outside at night and that sensor lights are working properly.

8. Make a point of randomly checking doors and security gates are locked and that nobody has used the door and forgotten to lock it again.

9. Activate your alarm in areas of the house you are not using.

10. Keep remote panic buttons close on hand while entertaining outside.

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Compiled on behalf of Fidelity ADT by Cathy Findley Public Relations, for media queries contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or on 011 463 6372