Hyderabad Police Issue Safety Tips for Sankranti Vacation to Prevent Burglaries
As the Sankranti festival approaches, the Hyderabad police have urged citizens to take precautions against house break-ins. Families leaving the city to celebrate the festival are especially at risk, and the police have outlined measures to ensure their homes remain secure.
The Cyberabad Police Commissioner, Avinash Mohanty, emphasized that this is a time when many families lock their houses and travel, giving burglars an opportunity to strike. He noted that with schools closed for the festival, numerous families are planning trips, and local as well as interstate burglary gangs might exploit this.
To prevent such incidents, Commissioner Mohanty suggested that citizens inform their local police station about their travel plans, including departure and return dates. Installing locks with central locking systems and using security alarms with motion sensors were also recommended for added protection.
The Commissioner advised residents to report any suspicious individuals immediately to the police by calling 100. He also recommended keeping two-wheelers inside the house compound, securing them with wheel chains, and hiring trusted watchmen or security guards to safeguard properties.
Installing CCTV cameras at both entry and exit points of the house was another key suggestion. He advised monitoring these cameras online and ensuring the DVR is stored in a safe location. To avoid alerting burglars to your absence, he recommended not leaving garbage, milk packets, or newspapers outside. Additionally, covering locked doors with curtains and leaving some lights on inside and outside the home can create the impression that someone is present.
The Commissioner also suggested informing trusted neighbors about your travel plans and requesting them to keep an eye on your house. He warned against leaving keys in easily accessible spots like shoe racks, under pillows, or in drawers. Sharing travel details on social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook was strongly discouraged, as it could alert potential criminals.
For any suspicions, citizens can contact the police by dialing the toll-free number 100, the Cyberabad Police Control Room at 9490617100, or the WhatsApp helpline at 9490617444. By following these proactive measures, families can enjoy their festival without worrying about home security.
