The Doringkloof Neighbourhood Watch (DNW) is a dynamic and evolving organisation. Since our inception we have grown and today many new residents make up the DNW. However, to remain effective we need to refresh ourselves in those areas where we have had success in the past.
One of the successful areas was in block clearing. The process of block clearing came about in response to the plague of wall jumpers we had in the early years.
To familiarise both old and new residents in the process of BLOCK CLEARANCE, the DNW Team is conducting a one hour exercise in block clearing (sometimes also referred to as cordon and search) in the Jansen Park on Sunday 8 November 2015 (enter from Maroela Street into Sering Street or from Glover, via Palm, into Kiaat Street). The exercise starts at 11:30 and will be very practical.
The major reason for this familiarisation is for residents to know exactly what is expected of them during block clearing. Experience has shown that if we all work together under the direction of one person, our success is then so much higher.
We urge all residents to attend this important event, in order to ensure that Doringkloof remains a safe place.
RADIOS AND THE DNW
The primary means of communication in combating crime in Doringkloof remains the hand held radio, notwithstanding that many other means of communication are available; such as emails, the telephone, Whatsapp and Zello. This means that if you, as a resident, wish to be part of the solution to crime you need to have a radio.
One of the major advantages of the radio over other means of communicating is the fact that it broadcasts instantaneously to all members, while it is specifically dedicated to combating crime.
The major disadvantage is when radio discipline is not applied. Lately we will all have experienced the annoying habit of some people who are not happy with the conversation over the radio. These unhappy radio users will simply block the transmission by pushing the PTT button (PTT = Press To Talk). However, all that this behaviour does is to delay the finalisation of the conversation.
BUT, we can minimise this annoying behaviour by being disciplined ourselves. Here are a few radio rules:
- Keep your transmission short. It is not necessary to repeat anything. If the receiver did not hear correctly he or she can simply say: “Say again” which will indicate you must repeat your message.
- Use standard radio phraseology, i.e. words and phrases we are all familiar with and understand.
- Just relay the facts. Long winded explanations can be confusing. If the receiver is unsure, they can ask.
- Try not to give the coordinator the problem but rather say what you are doing about the problem. If you see a suspicious person in the street, don’t just tell the coordinator, as all that they can do is to ask someone else to check them out. Why not check them out yourself and then if necessary, call the coordinator so that others can follow the person’s progress through Doringkloof.
Remember, if too much garbage is sent over the radio, people will switch off and that is the last thing we want.
Let’s keep listening on the radio!
Regards,
The DNW TEAM.
Note: Residents may ask, “Who is the DNW Team?” The team is made up of DNW members who meet weekly as the Crime Prevention Committee. This committee reviews crime that has happened in Doringkloof over the previous week, as well as other crime related matters, and determines what action is required to enhance our safety in Doringkloof.
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