Social disorder in the form of civil unrest, vandalism, xenophobia, hostage-taking, bomb threats, bombing, terrorism and premeditated chemical, biological and radiological (CBR) releases have occurred in various forms and intensities in the past. These are intensive forms of crime and it is the aim of the police and safety and security services to use their resources to prevent or reduce the risk of an outbreak of social disorder and to respond decisively if disorder does occur, so that the community can be protected. (Click here to visit the South African Police Services website.)

The community can assist the safety and security and law enforcement service by reporting all crimes and the identification of the perpetrators so that there can be a deterrent in this form of human-caused hazard.

For the reporting of any crime-related issues in Cape Town, call the South African Police (SAPS) on 10111, or the Metro Police Call Centre on 0860-POLICE (765423) or the City’s Public Emergency Communications Centre on 107 or 021 480 7700 (from a cellphone).

By drafting your own Family Emergency Plan and identifying all your risks, including those hazards affecting your own environment, you can make a positive contribution to preparedness.