Smash and Grab Prevention

[Cardinal]

Having met someone from Cape Town, I find myself driving into and in the city more often. I also drive to/from the airport regularly, sometimes at less than ideal times such as peak evening traffic.

I avoid known hotspots and keep valuables hidden, but am wondering if I should install anti smash and grab film on my windows.

Any thoughts and experiences on the effectiveness of these products would be appreciated. Also whether a window tint is advisable, and any other products that may help.

Here's an incident from the weekend which reminded me to give this some attention again.

Karin van Aardt and her husband, Herman, had flown from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport earlier that afternoon. The couple had planned a weekend in Vredenburg, where their son Ruan lives, after hiring a car at Cape Town International and making their way towards the N7.

But their journey was violently cut short. As they came to a stop at the intersection of Jakkalsvlei Avenue and Jakes Gerwel Drive in Bonteheuwel, a man smashed Karin’s window, lunged into the vehicle and began stabbing her while attempting to grab her handbag.

Herman sped off in panic and managed to flag down another motorist, desperately asking for directions to the nearest hospital. He followed the driver to Netcare N1 City Hospital, where medical teams fought to save her life. Despite their efforts, Karin succumbed to her injuries.

[oafpatroll]

A quality film is a no brainer for me. It gives you some physical barrier protection along the lines of burglar bars on a window. Not impenetrable but resistant to most manual efforts to get in for long enough to do something about getting away.

[Roguemeister]

I consider it almost a non-negotiable from my side. I had several windows smashed when i lived in cpt. Yes, if they’ve got all night it wont help but as mentioned, another physical barrier added on if you are in the vehicle. From a window tint point of view I’ve found a slight tint very helpful, even just in keeping the interior of the vehicle cooler and letting the aircon do a better job


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[shooty]

Ive noticed several vehicles in CPT driving with a type of burglar bar fitted on inside of windows.

Started noticing this about 3 to 4 weeks ago.

[Steven001]

I have never owned a car WITHOUT smash and grab.... Its a no brainer

[ady]

I consider it almost a non-negotiable from my side. I had several windows smashed when i lived in cpt. Yes, if they’ve got all night it wont help but as mentioned, another physical barrier added on if you are in the vehicle. From a window tint point of view I’ve found a slight tint very helpful, even just in keeping the interior of the vehicle cooler and letting the aircon do a better job


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I agree with this. My car came with smash & grab. Fortunately i haven't had to use it yet. In my view it also gives you a few precious seconds to gather yourself and draw a weapon.

[Cardinal]

Thanks all, I will get film fitted ASAP then.

Ive noticed several vehicles in CPT driving with a type of burglar bar fitted on inside of windows.

I've also noticed a couple, the ones I've seen didn't look very professional though.

[Gleock]

Not all smash and grab is equal.
LLumar used to be the best, not sure if that is still the case.

[flyinggun]

LLumar is great and besides the protection if gives, compare the inside temperature of a vehicle fitted to one without. The sun damage to cloth upholstery is also a lot less.

[Cardinal]

Thank you Gleock and flyinggun for the brand recommendation. I went to have film installed but decided against it after the installers couldn't (or wouldn't) tell me the brand or origin of their product. I'll go to a LLumar fitment partner.