It has almost sunk into the mind of Kenyans that during the Christmas festive season, it is when those aspiring to be criminals begin their internships and attachments.

A small mistake can leave someone regretting and cursing the day they were born.

Also Watch: Most Kenyans opt to stay in the city during the festive season

Some criminals even go to the extent of inflicting fatal injuries whether or not the victim resists. Oh God Tulikufanyia nini.

But luckily, crime prevention is not complicated.

It is a combination of simple and practical steps that ordinary citizens can take to reduce risk and increase safety.

Crime usually rises in December because families travel, homes are left unattended, shopping increases and people lower their guard.

This creates the perfect playground for criminals who rely on distraction and excitement.

Also Watch: Heavy police deployment in festive season

However, Kenyans can turn the tide by understanding the principles that keep homes, businesses and public spaces safe.

These principles have been used in many countries including the United Kingdom, but they also apply directly to Kenyan life.

Target hardening

The first step is making your home or business harder to break into. Criminals always choose the easiest target.

Simple actions such as fixing broken locks, installing firm window latches, trimming tall hedges that hide intruders and ensuring outside lights work well can push criminals away.

Even securing your online life with strong passwords protects you from festive season fraud. Homes that look secured discourage crime because criminals want a quick win, not a difficult mission.

Target removal

Another key step is removing items that attract criminals in the first place.

Many Kenyans lose phones, laptops and handbags simply because these items were visible through car windows or house windows.

Leaving valuables in plain sight creates temptation. During the festive rush, extra caution is needed.

Keep items out of view, avoid exposing expensive gadgets in public and resist the urge to post every purchase or travel plan on social media.

Reducing the means

Criminals often use the environment around your home to help them commit offences.

Removing objects that assist intruders can prevent break ins. Ladders should not be left leaning on walls. Tools and equipment should be locked away.

Even wheelie bins can help criminals climb into compounds or carry stolen property.

Clearing rubble and unused items from the compound denies intruders the extra help they need. When the environment looks controlled, criminals lose an advantage.

Access control

Access control means managing who enters your home or neighbourhood.

During the festive season there is an increase in visitors, workers, deliveries and movement. This creates loopholes that criminals exploit.

Ensuring doors and windows are locked, checking who enters the compound and keeping gates secured are important.

In estates, neighbours can take turns watching the gate or recording unfamiliar vehicles.

Good boundary walls and clear fencing help secure the environment. Criminals dislike communities that control their spaces.

Surveillance

Surveillance is one of the most effective crime deterrents. Criminals avoid being seen.

Good lighting, working streetlights, open visibility and active neighborhoods make them uncomfortable.

Communities can set up neighborhood watch groups, share security updates through messaging groups and report any suspicious activity quickly.

Even simple actions like trimming bushes near the gate or placing a chair where someone can observe visitors increases safety. When criminals feel watched, they choose to stay away.

As the festive season continues, Kenyans must remain alert and intentional. Crime prevention is not about fear.

More Articles

---