Online forum on security concerns

Dubai:  A UK-based private security firm has launched a novel online neighbourhood watch forum in the UAE where residents can now discuss issues concerning their safety and security.

E-Platform

Mark Petrou, Operations Di-rector of Securesys Services, said while it's easy to take security for granted in the UAE, which enjoys a low crime rate, incidents do occur and residents must guard against them. He said the e-forum http://securesys-services.com/ launched two weeks ago, provides an opportunity for residents to engage with others in their neighbourhood about suspicious movement of people, vehicles or incidents of crime.

He said people in the UAE do not communicate with their neighbours as closely as they may in their home countries, but hoped that the online forum might help. Over the past fortnight, it has received posts from residents of The Greens, Mirdiff and Jumeirah 3 in Dubai, besides one from Fujairah.

Waseem Ahmad, Director of Securesys Services, said people take risks such as keeping doors open or cars running when they pop into a pharmacy or grocery, which must be avoided.

Confidential

Those registering with the forum will receive general security advice on how to prevent crimes like break-ins, car thefts or pick-pocketing. All information shared with, or by the forum, will be kept confidential, he added.