The new Safety and Security functionality on the City App allows the public to log certain categories of by-law and policing incidents directly through the app, with more categories to be phased in over time.
For now, reports can be made in 17 sub-categories, including metal theft, public drinking, abandoned or broken-down vehicles, problem buildings, and poaching.
Should an incident type not be available for in-app reporting, the user will be redirected to the Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700.
Among the benefits of the Safety and Security reporting feature are:
• Reporting via the app uses minimal data, and the City hopes to make this a zero-rated app in future.
• All reports are automatically geolocated and routed to the relevant City departments to ensure an efficient response and follow-up.
• The ability to submit accurate details, including photographs, enables faster and more effective incident reporting.
• Reports can be submitted discreetly, allowing users to log incidents without drawing attention to themselves in public spaces.
• Registered users receive Safety and Security alerts, helping to improve awareness of reported incidents in surrounding areas. These alerts are based on incidents logged with the City.
• Reporting via the app reduces pressure on the Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC).
“We are incredibly proud and excited about this milestone. It follows the development of a functionality in 2024 linking the deaf community and persons who are hard of hearing directly to the PECC via the City’s app. Now, the general public can start logging incidents too. This is but the latest way in which the City hopes to strengthen partnerships with communities and ensure access to services. So many of our successes come via tip-offs or reports from the public – just another example of how critical a role everyone has in advancing public safety,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
The City’s mobile app is available for download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Among the existing functions for users are the ability to log service requests, comment on public issues that affect them, log in to e-Services to access and pay their municipal bills, and access information on planned service outages and road closures.
“The addition of safety and security services to the City App expands our customer self-service access and improves how residents engage with the City. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to customer-centric service delivery and improved access to critical services in emergencies,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Corporate Services, Alderman Theresa Uys.
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