Security and insurance experts are reminding homeowners and tenants to take steps to protect their properties as crimes tend to spike over holiday periods such as Easter.
The warning comes as the latest crime statistics from the South African Police Service (SAPS) show that home-related crimes remain a major concern.
According to the SAPS’s latest data, the country recorded 42,969 cases of home burglaries between October and December 2025.
This works out to roughly 477 incidents a day. Meanwhile, the SAPS recorded 6,505 house robberies over the same period—or 72 every day.
Considering this, security company Fidelity ADT has urged households to take practical precautions before leaving for a holiday or even while staying home over the Easter weekend.
“Holiday periods are a special time for families, but they can also present opportunities if homes are left unattended,” said Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group.
Hattingh said families should also be mindful of children who may be spending more time at home during the school holidays.
She stressed that they should be taught simple but important safety habits, such as keeping doors locked, never letting strangers into the house, and knowing how to use alarm systems and emergency contacts if something goes wrong.
Insurance experts have echoed the same concerns, warning that property damage, theft and break-ins can quickly turn a holiday into a financial and emotional setback.
This is the feedback from Hardy Ncube, Head of Personal Products at Standard Insurance Limited.
Ncube said many people view insurance as something secondary, but it plays a critical role when disaster strikes. He noted that a home is not only a major financial asset, but also a deeply personal space.
“Your home is your physical and emotional space. If there is a fire, you call the fire services. If there’s suspicious activity, you contact your security company or the police,” he said.
“In the same way, if your home is damaged by weather, a burst geyser, or theft while you’re away, your insurer is there to step in and help you recover.”
Simple tips to help avoid being a target
He added that owning or renting a home comes with long-term risks that should not be underestimated.
“Without the right insurance, unexpected events can become a significant financial burden. Insurance is a resilience partner; it helps ensure that disruptions do not derail your plans or your financial stability,” Ncube said.
Before heading away for Easter, households are being encouraged to make sure their insurance policies are current and that all requirements under those policies are being met.
Fidelity ADT added that a few simple checks can significantly improve home security and peace of mind.
The firm said the most important thing is keeping holiday plans private. It warned against posting travel details, countdowns or live updates on social media, as this can advertise that a property is empty.
Residents should also test their alarm systems well in advance and double-check that all windows and doors are locked before leaving.
Trusted neighbours can also play a key role by collecting post, moving bins, or switching lights on and off to make the property appear occupied.
The company added that outdoor lighting and motion sensors can act as a strong deterrent, while homeowners should also ensure their security provider can access the property if there is an emergency.
Fidelity ADT also urged South Africans to remain alert while travelling, particularly when stopping along the way.
Valuables should be kept out of sight in vehicles and preferably locked in the boot, while drivers should stick to well-lit and secure parking areas.
