The year end festive period is approaching. This period is an opportune time for criminals to commit theft or theft related offences due to the large crowds in the mall and commit housebreaking during the closure of office premises such as during Christmas on 25 Dec 17 and New Year’s Day on 1 Jan 18. Such incidents can be sufficiently prevented.
As with previous years, large crowds are expected to visit Vision City Mega Mall and we would like to advise all tenants and shoppers to remain vigilant against crime during this period.
Don’t let thieves steal your festive joy. They are known to steal exposed items such as hand phones and wallets from bags, unzipping or slitting the bags of unsuspecting victims. At times, they may have accomplices who would help to distract or block the view of the victim to facilitate the theft. Some culprits deliberately bump or jostle into an unsuspecting victim in a crowd and commit theft in the process. Tenants and customers are advised to adopt the following crime prevention measures to safeguard their belongings:
- a) Avoid exposing cash, valuables, or jewelry in public areas as this might draw unnecessary attention;
- b) Avoid placing your wallet in your back pocket. Ensure that your bag is properly secured at all times. Cross-sling it in front or clasp it firmly while shopping or walking;
- c) Never leave your valuables unattended on trolleys or strollers while shopping. Unattended valuables pose easy targets to would-be culprits;
- d) Do not be distracted by strangers creating a commotion, bumping into you or accidentally spilling something onto you. Check your valuables immediately if this happens
- e) Do not adorn your children with excessive gold jewelry as they are easy targets for potential criminals.
TENANT SECURITY PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
- a) Display posters or signage to deter shop theft;
- b) Ensure a good line of sight for the displays by using an appropriate shop layout;
- c) Keep expensive merchandise in locked display cabinets;
- d) Install CCTVs with recording system; &
- e) Deploy adequate security personnel to man your shop entrance as an added deterrent
With the expected congregation of large crowds at the mall and various public locations during this period, tenants, members of the public, especially females, are advised to stay vigilant against those who may take the opportunity to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals.
The following are some precautions that females can take to minimize the risks of becoming a victim outside of the mall:
- a) Be wary of strangers who approach you in crowded areas
- b) Stay close to your friends or move around in groups when in crowded places
- c) Be aware and alert of your surroundings. If someone stands exceptionally close to you, or if you suspect that you are being followed, remain calm and proceed to a crowded area or call security for assistance
- d) Avoid taking short-cuts through dark and deserted places. Keep to well-lit areas where there are more people and traffic
- e) Where possible, do not nap whilst travelling on public transport
- f) When coming home late at night, get someone to escort you home
Crime Prevention Advisory on Securing Your Homes against Housebreaking
During this period of festive gatherings and partying, home owners be reminded to adopt the following crime prevention measure to prevent break-ins into their homes:
- a) Make sure that your main doors and windows are properly secured with strong grilles and good quality locks
- b) Do not leave large amounts of cash in your home. All cash, jewelries and valuable items should be kept in a bank or in a good quality safe that is anchored to the wall/floor to prevent the safe from being carted away
- c) Consider installing a burglar alarm system;
If you are going on a vacation, you should consider:
- a) Entrusting family members or neighbors to conduct regular visits to your home while you are away
- b) Making arrangements to suspend your newspaper subscriptions as uncollected newspapers are tell-tale signs that a house is not occupied.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Vision City Mall management team. Enjoy the festive season and stay safe!!