The service provides for, inter alia :

• A guard force to provide access control and patrols at strategic municipal localities;
• Investigation of Council losses / thefts / damage or misuse of assets;
• Monitoring of localities and rapid response to any alarm conditions;
• Supervision of all sites guarded by contract security services;
• Armed escorts and other relevant functions;
• Security surveys and recommendations to Directorates  to prevent loss or potential loss.

Security  & Safety Tips for Visitors
Latest Criminal Methods of Operations
Cable Theft

In your hotel or guest-house

·         Keep your hotel door locked at all times.Meet visitors in the foyer (lobby).

·         Do not leave money and other valuables in your hotel room while you are out.

·         Use the hotel safe.

·         Let someone know when you are expected to return if you are out late at night. In fact, it’s always advisable to always let someone know your plans.

·         When alone, do not get into an elevator if you feel uncomfortable about others in it or, about to enter it.

·         Read the fire safety instructions in your hotel room. Know how to report a fire and know where the nearest fire exit and alternate exits are located.

·         Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit. This could be a lifesaver if you have to crawl through a smoke-filled corridor.

·         If you hear a noise during the night, don’t investigate on your own. Call for help!

When using public transport

·         Taxis: Only take taxis clearly identified with official markings or recommended by your accommodation establishment. Beware of unmarked and unroadworthy taxis. Negotiate fares in advance, or at least be sure of the rate per kilometre.

·         Trains: Systematic robbery of passengers on trains along popular routes is a problem. If your way is blocked by a stranger and another person is standing very close behind you, move away. Where possible, lock your compartment. Be wary of railside bag snatchings.

In the car

·         Do not park your vehicle in an isolated place, alley or near bushes. At night, park as closely as possible to street lights.

·         Do not leave items visibly lying around in your car. Lock them in the boot.

·         Be aware that uniformed parking attendants will offer to safeguard your car for a small fee.

·         Wear your seatbelts.

·         Keep all doors locked when travelling.

·         Keep windows closed at stop streets and traffic lights.

·         Be particularly vigilant when approaching intersections late at night.

·         Stick to the speed limit.

·         Never pick up hitchhikers.

·         Be suspicious of anyone who hails you or tries to get your attention when you are in or near your car.

On the street

·         Always walk in well-lit areas with other people. Do not walk alone in isolated places or near taxi ranks at night.

·         Avoid deserted alleys.

·         Use your discretion regarding strangers who request information.

·         Try not to expose valuables such as money, credit cards, cameras or valuable shopping purchases.

·         Your passport, cash and credit cards are most secure when locked in a hotel safe. When you have to carry them on your person, you may wish to conceal them in several places rather than putting them all in one wallet or pouch.

·         Hold your bag under your arm.

·         Use pedestrian crossings with caution. In South Africa,  zebra crossings still need to be tamed!

·         Like other major international cities, avoid scam artists and beware of strangers who approach you and offer bargains or to be your guide.

At the beach

·         Never swim alone on a deserted beach.

·         Only swim in the designated bathing areas patrolled by lifeguards.

·         Stay within a depth with which you feel comfortable.

·         Never swim after consuming alcohol or immediately after a meal.

·         Listen to the lifeguards. They are there to protect you.

·         Do not leave your belongings unsupervised.

·         Tell your children that if they get lost, they should go to the nearest lifeguard or police officer.

·         Always wear sun protection - even in the winter sun.

·         If stung by a bluebottle, remove the tentacle and apply ice. Do not rub the affected area. If your glands swell, consult a doctor immediately. It is the easterly on-shore wind that brings in the bluebottles.

·         Never use inflatable items like rubber rings or lilos when the westerly wind is blowing.

·         If caught in a strong backwash or rip current, don’t panic or fight against the current. Conserve your energy. Calmer waters are usually only a few metres away. Float with the current or, if possible, swim across it. Where possible, wave your arms above your head for help.

·         Place litter in the bins provided or take it back home with you.

·         Do not take glass containers to the beach.

Money matters

·         Take extreme care when using the auto-teller (ATM) bank machines. If you are unsure of withdrawal procedures, seek assistance within the bank.

·         Hide your ATM pin number

·         Avoid carrying large sums of cash.

·         Do not draw large sums of money or count your money in front of strangers. Do not get involved in conversations with anyone at ATMs - a request for assistance is often a prelude for being robbed.

·         Use travellers’ cheques or credit cards. Only countersign them in front of the person who will cash them.

·         Weekday banking hours are from 9h00 to 15h30 and from 8h30 to 11h00 on Saturdays. A select few foreign exchange bureaus, for example the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World in Summerstrand, are open seven days a week. Enquire at your accommodation establishment.

·         Notes issued are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10. Coins issued are R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c,10c and 5c. Foreign currency may be exchanged at any commercial bank.

·         If possessions are lost or stolen, report the loss immediately to the local police. Keep a copy of the police report for insurance claims and as an explanation of your plight.

·         Also report loss or theft of traveller’s cheques to the nearest agent of the issuing company; credit cards to the issuing company; airline tickets to the airline or travel agent; passport to your nearest embassy and consulate.

·         Beware of schemes in which a caller attempts to win your confidence and persuades you to assist in a potentially lucrative business venture.

General hints for visitors

·         Electricity and electric shavers: 220/230 volts AC at 50H.

·         Ask about areas that you intend visiting to ensure that they are safe. Every city or town has “no go” areas.

·         Keep a record of serial numbers of cameras and video recorders.

·         Keep copies of your passport, airline tickets and any other travel documentation.

·         Know how to use a pay telephone and have proper change or a phone card on hand.

·         If you are confronted by criminals, don’t fight back. Give up your valuables.

 Useful links

·         http://www.saps.gov.za/
·         http://www.hijack.co.za/
·         http://www.iss.co.za/