Safety magazine

Scams can occur both offline and online, and anyone can fall victim. There are traditional forms, such as street scams and doorstep fraud, but also more modern methods like phishing and social media scams. In this magazine, we’ll cover several types to help you stay informed and prepared — so that scammers won’t stand a chance with you.

Phishing

Phishing is a common form of fraud in which scammers send fake emails or messages that appear to come from banks or other official institutions. They typically ask for your login credentials or payment information, often through a link to a fake website. If you enter your details, the scammers can take over and misuse your accounts. Always be cautious with messages requesting personal information—especially if they create a sense of urgency. Always verify such requests through the official website.

WhatsApp and SMS fraud 

In this scam, a fraudster pretends to be a friend or family member with a “new” phone number. They’ll usually send a message saying they’re in trouble and urgently need money. A payment request often follows. If you receive such a message, don’t transfer money right away. Call the person using the number you know and speak to them directly. Be wary of excuses like “I can’t talk right now.” Also verify the account number – does it match their usual one?

Protect your social media by adjusting privacy settings so only trusted contacts can see your information. This reduces the risk of scammers misusing your details.

Sales fraud

Fraud is increasingly common on online marketplaces. Scammers may pose as sellers and send fake payment links. Once payment is made, the product never arrives. In some cases, money is transferred to accounts of young people acting as “money mules” – individuals who allow their bank accounts to be used in exchange for compensation. This is illegal and can lead to a criminal record.

Always be cautious when buying online. Only use trusted platforms and verify sellers before making any payments. Fraud is also increasingly common on online marketplaces. Scammers pose as sellers and try to trick you with fake payment requests. This can result in money being transferred, while the package you paid for never arrives. Criminals often have the money transferred to the bank accounts of young people who make their accounts available for this purpose. These youths are known as “money mules” and are used by scammers to receive illegal payments. In exchange, they are usually offered a fee. This is a serious form of fraud and can lead to these young people ending up with a criminal record. Never allow money to be transferred to your account for someone else. Always be alert when making online purchases and check whether the seller is trustworthy before making any payment.

Handling 

Handling involves buying, owning, or selling stolen goods – and it’s a criminal offense. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Think of unusually cheap bikes, phones, or cars. To check if an item is stolen, visit www.stopheling.nl or use the Stopheling app.

Distraction Scams

Distraction scams involve trickery used by con artists to deceive people and steal their money or valuables. These scammers often appear trustworthy, making it easy for them to gain the victim’s confidence. They may show up unexpectedly at the door or approach people on the street with a convincing story. Once they have earned the victim’s trust, they often steal cash, jewelry, or other valuable items.

In some cases, scammers may even use threats or violence to intimidate their victims. They might pose as repair workers, bank employees, or home care staff. For example, they may claim to be from the bank conducting an inspection, or from the municipality performing a home check. While the victim is distracted, an accomplice may quietly slip inside to steal belongings.

It’s important to always be cautious and never let someone into your home without being absolutely sure the situation is safe. If something feels off, trust your instincts and contact the police immediately. Suspicious situations should be reported by calling 112.

Fake police officers

Increasingly, the police are receiving reports of criminals posing as police officers. They may contact you by phone and then drop by your home to surreptitiously obtain valuable property or sensitive information. 

Fake police officers are difficult to spot as they often use convincing methods to appear credible. For example, they may call from a number that looks like an official police number or be dressed in what looks like a police uniform. However, they often try to instil fear or urgency, for example by claiming that your property is in danger or that you need to take immediate action. Pay attention to the following signs:

• The caller asks for sensitive information such as bank details or valuables.
• The person at the door does not show a valid police ID.

Bank helpdesk fraud 

A common type of scam is bank helpdesk fraud. In this case, fraudsters pretend to be employees of your bank and try to gain your trust in various ways—often by exploiting human traits such as curiosity, trust, or fear. Their goal is to obtain your confidential information.

A well-known example is when scammers call you, claiming there’s suspicious activity on your account and that you need to transfer your money to a “safe vault account.” They pressure you to act quickly and don’t give you time to think it through. In some cases, the scammers may even come to your home, offering to collect your bank card or other valuables under the pretense of keeping them safe.

4 rules to remember 

Elderly people are especially vulnerable to this type (or these types) of fraud.

That’s why we’ve compiled a number of tips to help prevent scams such as distraction thefts, fake police officers, and bank help desk fraud — particularly aimed at helping parents, grandparents, older family members, acquaintances, and neighbors. Talk about these issues together to help make your loved ones more resilient against fraud.

1. Police officers always wear a full uniform with equipment: 
   Explain that they should always ask for identification if someone claims to be a police officer. Real officers can always show an official police ID card with a name, employee number, and photo. In addition, officers must always wear a full uniform, including radios and authorized equipment around their waist.
2. Scammers are pushy and want to act quickly: 
   Tell them how scammers operate. They often pretend to be police officers or bank employees who are coming to collect valuable items. They are pushy and try to create a sense of urgency.
3. Do not open the door for strangers or let them in: 
   Even if your (grand)parents have already given out some information, it’s important not to open the door.
4. Bank employees and police officers will NEVER ask for PIN codes or valuable items:
   Emphasize that they should never give out their PIN code or hand over valuables — not even to someone claiming to be from the bank or police. They will NEVER ask for PIN codes or valuable belongings.

Crime is increasingly digital. Old and young are increasingly at risk of becoming victims. That is why the municipality of Oegstgeest actively pursues prevention, trying to prevent damage and problems as much as possible. This also applies to digital safety. With initiatives such as the Cybercrime Challenge, HackShield and the Seniors Computer Café, we want to help residents become more resilient against online dangers. 

Cybercrime Challenge 

The Cybercrime Challenge is an online game available to residents of the Leiden region.

People of all ages can explore digital safety in a fun and educational way. The challenge includes short quizzes at both beginner and advanced levels. Through questions on various digital topics—such as identity fraud and ransomware—you’ll learn how to better protect yourself online. Once you’ve completed all the topics, you’ll receive an official Cybercrime Challenge certificate! Show this certificate at the front desk of your local town hall, and you’ll receive a small thank-you gift for your participation.

Mayor Emile Jaensch has already earned his certificate—will you take on the challenge too?

HackShield 

HackShield is a free game for children aged 8 to 12. Through play, kids become more aware of the dangers they may face online. They take part in an exciting story, learn about online safety, discover potential threats, and gain valuable “skills” through various levels to defend themselves. They are trained to become Cyber Agents—young heroes who can protect both themselves and those around them from digital threats.

Each year, together with the local police officer, the municipality visits schools to encourage children to start playing HackShield. Why? Because we urgently need Cyber Agents to help protect people from online dangers! Be sure to check out the mayor’s message too!

The Senioren Computer Café

The Senioren Computer Café (SCC) in Oegstgeest, located at President Kennedylaan 141, is a unique place where seniors can receive help and advice on using digital devices. Wim Mol, volunteer and chairman of the SCC since 2006, enthusiastically shares the café’s success and the many opportunities it offers.

Improving Digital Skills

Wim explains why the café is called the “Senioren Computer Café” instead of an “Internet Café.” “When we started in 2006, internet cafés already existed in the area. But we specifically wanted to focus on seniors. That’s when Stichting Radius launched the initiative to help older people develop digital skills—something that wasn’t so common at the time,” Wim explains.

The SCC is run by a team of volunteers and is affiliated with SeniorWeb Nederland, a national network of digital learning centers for seniors. This partnership gives volunteers access to valuable resources and training, and helps them stay informed about the latest tech developments.

Walk-in Hours and Private Lessons

What started with lessons on older systems like Windows 95 has since evolved with the times. “Nowadays, it’s all about smartphones, tablets, and apps. The questions we get often involve setting up devices, using WhatsApp, logging into government services, or staying safe with passwords. Seniors also struggle with transferring data to a new device or recognizing phishing emails,” Wim explains.

Learning by Doing

The SCC offers a range of services—from open consultation hours to specific courses such as using WhatsApp, photo editing, and online safety. “We focus on learning by doing. For many seniors, this is a whole new world, and the best way to master it is by being hands-on,” says Wim. You can view available courses and register via the SCC website.

Drop in Without an Appointment

Walk-in consultation hours take place every Tuesday and Friday afternoon from 13:45 to 15:45. Seniors can stop by without an appointment to ask questions and get help with their devices. The SCC also offers private lessons. “Over the years, we’ve noticed that the questions have become more specific. That’s why we now offer more one-on-one sessions, because seniors’ needs vary widely,” Wim adds. You can sign up for these via the website as well.

Tips for Staying Safe Online

Online safety is a recurring topic in conversations with seniors. Wim emphasizes: “If you receive something and you’re not sure what it is—never click on the links. It’s always safer to log in directly via the official website to avoid any risks.” This is one of the first pieces of advice they share with visitors.

Want to Know More? Come Visit!

For seniors who are hesitant to take the first step, Wim has some clear advice: “Just drop by! No question is too small, even if you’re completely new to computers.” The café’s approachable atmosphere and the patience of its volunteers make many seniors feel welcome and supported.

In Oegstgeest, we place great importance on traffic safety. Throughout the year, we focus on various forms of unsafe or undesirable behavior in traffic. Examples include riding bicycles on the sidewalk, exceeding speed limits, cycling or driving without proper lights, tampering with bikes or mopeds to make them faster, and displaying dangerous driving behavior. So, what’s being done about it?

Smiley Signs in Oegstgeest

To help reduce speeding, digital “smiley signs” are placed at various locations around the municipality. These signs immediately show drivers their speed — accompanied by either a happy or sad smiley face. This encourages motorists to become more aware of their driving behavior.

In addition, we regularly conduct speed checks. The results are analyzed to better understand driving behavior in different areas. While many drivers do stick to the speed limit, speeding remains a point of concern in Oegstgeest.

Bike light campaign 

Good lighting on your bike greatly improves road safety. Every autumn, campaigns are held to raise awareness about the importance of proper bike lights. During these campaigns, municipal officers talk to passers-by and explain the importance of being visible in the dark. Free bike lights and reflective materials are handed out—not just to cyclists, but also to pedestrians.

There are also regular checks on bike lighting. Cyclists without lights are immediately given proper lighting. Those who already have working lights are rewarded with extra reflective gear to become even more visible. These actions help ensure that everyone is well-lit and safe on the road.

Alderman Kees Oudendijk emphasizes the importance of visibility:

“Winter clothing is often dark, making cyclists less noticeable. Good lighting helps ensure everyone gets home safely—especially after dark.”

The police also check for bike lighting and issue fines to cyclists without proper lights. The current fine for riding without adequate lighting is €70, excluding administrative fees.

Fatbikes 

Fatbikes are currently very popular, especially among young people. These bikes, with their thick tires and often electric motors, can reach high speeds—but that also comes with risks.

Unfortunately, fatbikes are not always used safely and are often modified to go even faster. Tuned fatbikes can reach speeds comparable to mopeds, yet they don’t have the same braking power or required safety features. This significantly increases the risk of accidents, especially in busy traffic or when the brakes aren’t functioning properly.

Did you know? 

• About 1 in 3 fatal road accidents are due to speeding?
• If everyone in the Netherlands sticks to the speed limit we will have 25-30% fewer injury victims?
• A collision at 50 km/h is equivalent to a 10-metre fall? This is from the 3rd floor of an apartment building, for example.

Home burglaries

The municipality of Oegstgeest experiences a relatively high number of home burglaries. That’s why it’s important to make things as difficult as possible for burglars. What can you do to protect your home?

These tips will help make it harder for burglars:

• Make your home look lived-in. Use timers and motion-sensor lights.
• Always lock all doors and windows properly—even if you're just stepping out for a moment or you're upstairs while everything downstairs is open.
• Don’t leave keys in the lock on the inside of the door.
• Keep valuable items out of sight.
• Going on holiday? Ask a neighbor or friend to occasionally remove the mail from your front door.
• Have a driveway? Let your neighbors know they can use it while you're away.
• Avoid posting holiday photos or plans on social media. Burglars check those too.
• Join your local neighborhood watch WhatsApp group via OegstgeestAlert, or start one if it doesn’t exist yet.
• Install a video doorbell or similar camera system.
• Install an alarm system if you have many valuable items in your home.
• Ensure your locks and fittings are secure and choose locks with the Police Quality Mark for Safe Living (Politiekeurmerk Veilig Wonen). Homes with this certification are 80% less likely to be burgled.
• See anything suspicious? Call 112 immediately.

What if your house is broken into anyway? 

Call 112 if you suspect the burglars may still be nearby. Call 0900-8844 if you want to report the burglary. The police will come to you as soon as possible. Do not clean up any damage to avoid disturbing potential evidence, and wait to speak to the police first. If possible, block any stolen items such as bank cards or SIM cards.

Camera in beeld 

Camera in beeld is a police initiative where you can register your security camera(s). The police do not monitor your footage in real time. Instead, they maintain a database of camera locations. If a crime occurs and surveillance footage could help identify the suspects, the police can request the relevant footage directly from camera owners.

Do you have one or more cameras installed at your home or business premises? Then register them! By doing so, you’re not only assisting the police, you’re also helping protect your own property and contributing to a safer neighborhood.

Meldpunt zorg en overlast

Life can be challenging at times. You may be concerned about someone in your community: someone who is withdrawing, not opening their mail, causing disturbances, or showing signs of confused behavior.

In such cases, you can contact the Meldpunt zorg en overlast (MZO). The staff will listen to your concerns, offer advice, and assess whether help is needed. If so, they will arrange appropriate support and try to motivate the person in question to accept the assistance offered.

Are you noticing signs that you can’t ignore? Check the important contact information (page 30) to find out how to get in touch with the MZO team.

WABP 

WhatsApp Buurt Preventie (WABP) in Oegstgeest

Martin, 56, has lived in Oegstgeest for several years. He’s the coordinator of WABP in the area and volunteers his time to help things run smoothly. WABP stands for WhatsApp Buurt Preventie (WhatsApp Neighborhood Prevention), a group where residents share suspicious situations with each other via WhatsApp to warn one another, and sometimes take immediate action. It’s a way to make the neighborhood safer by simply keeping an eye out for each other.

WABP’s reach in Oegstgeest

Currently, around 11 WABP groups are active across different neighborhoods in Oegstgeest. While the groups are already well distributed, Martin hopes even more residents will join.
“It would be ideal if one in every five residents signed up,” he says. “That way we’ll always have enough coverage, even when many people are away on vacation.”

What gets shared?

Martin explains that the focus of the groups is safety: “We only discuss matters that genuinely affect neighborhood safety.” That includes reports of break-ins, suspicious vehicles, or unusual activity in the area. The goal is to quickly spread important information among local residents. The police are also present in the groups—they read along and occasionally post warnings or requests for assistance. “All reports are handled through the emergency dispatch center, so we always check whether 112 has been called when necessary,” Martin adds.

Prevention and tips for residents

In addition to encouraging active participation in the WhatsApp groups, Martin shares some practical home safety tips: “Video doorbells are useful after the fact, to identify people, which is great. But the most effective thing is to inspect your home for easy entry points. Is there a ladder lying around? Are there windows ajar that can be reached easily? Do you actually lock your front door, so a burglar who climbs through a window can’t just walk out with your TV? What about the back door? The shed? The bikes in the shed?” Thinking this way doesn’t just help secure your own home—it helps protect the whole neighborhood.

Signing up for WABP

Signing up is easy and can be done through the website www.WABP.nl, where residents can sign up using their postal code. 

Burgernet

Burgernet is an alert system set up by the police to collaborate with citizens. It is used in situations such as theft or burglary, hit-and-runs, robberies, and missing persons. When the police initiate a search, all participants in the area receive a notification via the Burgernet app. The alert includes details about who or what the police are looking for. The more people participate in Burgernet, the faster the police can gather vital information for their search.

Have you seen something? Then call the emergency services directly at 112, or use the "Call the police" button in the app. Through the Burgernet app, you’ll also receive AMBER Alerts and Missing Child Alerts. An AMBER Alert is issued when a child is missing and believed to be in imminent danger. A Missing Child Alert is sent out when the police are seriously concerned about a missing child, but there is not yet evidence of immediate danger.

Signing up is easy: visit www.burgernet.nl or download the app.

Fire safety 

Fire safety is essential, both in the workplace and at home. By taking a few simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire and limit potential damage or injury. Good fire prevention starts with being mindful of your daily habits. Let’s take a closer look at a few important points.

Batteries, chargers and power packs 

Charging devices like phones, laptops, and electric bikes can pose a fire hazard if not done carefully. Always use original chargers and never leave your devices unattended while charging. Overheating batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, which are common in modern electronics, can catch fire if not handled properly.

Tips: 

• Never charge devices in environments that are too hot or too cold. Extreme temperatures can lead to overheating or other dangerous situations.
• Make sure to charge devices at least once every three months, even if they’re not used often.
• If a device has been dropped, damaged, or deformed, place it outside and take it to a professional for inspection or replacement as soon as possible.
• Leave battery maintenance to a professional. This helps avoid the risks of improper handling or damage.
• Always place a device or battery on a stable, non-flammable surface while charging. Ideally, charge devices when you’re awake so you can monitor the process and respond quickly if something goes wrong.
• Unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged to prevent overcharging, which can cause overheating or damage.
• Always charge batteries near a working smoke detector, and keep an eye on the process to intervene quickly in case of overheating.

Smoke detectors

In the Netherlands, it is mandatory to have a smoke alarm on every floor of your home, as well as in enclosed spaces that form part of an escape route. Smoke alarms are one of the most important tools to alert you in the event of a fire. Make sure to install a smoke alarm in every bedroom, hallway, and stairwell. Test smoke alarms monthly by pressing the test button, and replace the batteries once a year. Don’t forget to replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years, as their effectiveness can decline over time.

Tips: 

• Never leave appliances unattended. Always turn off the stove, oven, and dryer when you leave the house—even if it's just for a quick chat with the neighbor.
• Close doors during a fire. Closed doors help slow the spread of toxic smoke and can make a critical difference in a fire. Always close interior doors when you leave the house or go to sleep.
• Smoke detectors for vulnerable people:
• Make sure smoke alarms are clearly audible. For the hearing impaired, consider using amplifiers, vibrating pads, or flashing lights.
• A voice alert smoke alarm can help older adults take the right action during a fire.
• Wirelessly connected smoke alarms can also alert neighbors, allowing them to help with evacuation and contact emergency services.

Carbon monoxide (CO)

Every year, an average of 5 to 10 people die in the Netherlands from carbon monoxide poisoning, and hundreds end up in the hospital. According to estimates by the Dutch Safety Board, the actual number of victims may be 3 to 5 times higher. Carbon monoxide poisoning often goes unnoticed because its symptoms, headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, are similar to the flu. A carbon monoxide detector can alert you in time and potentially save your life!

Ventilate, check, alert!

• Ventilate: Keep a window or ventilation grille slightly open at all times.
• Check: Have your heating appliances inspected annually by a certified technician.
• Alert: Install a carbon monoxide detector near heating devices or the fireplace.

Youth work

Youth work in Oegstgeest plays an important role in supporting and guiding young people in the municipality. Kawa Mazoori and Simone Stap, both youth workers with Gro-Up Community Work in Oegstgeest, collaborate with the municipality, enforcement officers, and the police to connect with young people and help them face the challenges they encounter. Their mission is clear: to empower youth and support them in making their own choices and reaching their goals.

Kawa and Simone offer youth work in a variety of ways. They work on the streets as well as in schools, where they coach young people one-on-one or guide them in groups. In schools, they give workshops and presentations on important topics such as digital resilience, self-image, loneliness, and love and relationships. These sessions are designed to raise awareness and create open conversations around issues that matter to young people. For example, a recent session at primary schools focused on digital safety, organized in collaboration with the municipality and the local police officer. “We believe young people are very capable, and we mainly support them by providing tips and tools so they can work on their own personal goals.”

Accessibility and involvement

Young people in Oegstgeest can reach Kawa and Simone in several ways—both in person on the street and through digital channels like WhatsApp, phone, email, and social media. “We try to make it as easy as possible for young people to reach us.” Youth can also be referred through friends, parents, or their school if they’re dealing with something or need support. “We’re always available for a conversation. It doesn’t matter how someone gets in touch.”

Every Tuesday from 3:30 PM to 10:00 PM, a youth space is open at community center De Kratong in Buitenlust (Curacaostraat 18, Oegstgeest). This is a place where young people can feel at home and meet others in a relaxed, living-room-like setting. In the afternoon, it’s open to youth up to age 15, and from 7:00 PM it’s open to those aged 16 and older. They can hang out, play games, table football, or darts, and also ask questions or talk about personal issues in a safe environment. Youth workers use this time to connect with young people and to identify any problems that may be occurring.

Youth work for everyone 

Kawa and Simone find that many young people approach them when they’re facing challenges at school or in their free time. Some remain involved in youth work up to the age of 23 or 24, for example as volunteers helping others. They also work with families, especially when a young person is going through difficulties at home, such as divorce or high family stress. “The family can play a big role in what a young person is going through,” they explain. “Together with other professionals, we look at the situation and how to best support them.”

Performance and social pressure

The youth workers have noticed that young people in Oegstgeest often have very full schedules. Between school and extracurricular activities, there’s little time left to relax. Kawa and Simone see that many youth are under pressure and often overburdened. “Expectations are high, and young people really feel that.” Youth work helps bring this pressure into the open, offering coaching and support so young people can learn how to cope with it.

An accessible community

One notable aspect of Oegstgeest is how approachable its young people are. Kawa and Simone say that it’s relatively easy to strike up a conversation with them. “Young people in Oegstgeest are usually quite open and willing to talk.” This makes the youth work both effective and accessible. The youth workers not only support young people but also help improve safety in the municipality. Residents who are concerned about their neighborhood or experience nuisance from young people can always reach out to Kawa and Simone to explore possible solutions together. “As youth workers, we work closely with the municipality, enforcement officers, neighborhood police, and other partners to improve safety.”

For questions about youth work in Oegstgeest or to request support, young people can contact Kawa and Simone by phone or WhatsApp. Their contact details can be found in the important contact information (p. 30). 

Undermining is a broad concept and a growing problem in the Netherlands. It can also occur in Oegstgeest, but what exactly does it mean? Undermining is a form of crime where the criminal underworld and the legal upper world become intertwined.

This can involve money laundering, drug trafficking, illegal cannabis cultivation, real estate fraud, and other criminal offenses. Criminals often pressure vulnerable people to let them use their properties or businesses for illegal activities. This can have serious consequences for the safety and livability of our community.

The municipality of Oegstgeest is committed to detecting and tackling undermining. But the help of residents is also needed. That’s why it’s important to recognize and report suspicious situations.

Watch out for these warning signs

• Strong odors: A strong smell of weed, anise, or chemicals around homes or business properties.
• Covered windows and doors: No visibility inside and little or no activity during the day.
• Unusual activity: A lot of foot traffic at odd hours or delivery services stopping at unusual locations.
• Excessive security: Cameras in strange places, extra locks or bars on windows and doors.
• Properties that seem uninhabited: No mail, closed curtains at all times, and little or no lighting.
• Suspicious money flows: People paying in cash or living a luxury lifestyle with no visible income.

What can you do?

Do you suspect criminal activity or undermining in your area? Report it anonymously to Meld Misdaad Anoniem.

Meld Misdaad Anoniem 

Everyone wants to live in a safe neighborhood. But what do you do if you know or suspect criminal activity in your area? Have you seen something or recognize someone on footage, but the suspect knows you or you don’t feel safe contacting the police directly? Then there is Meld Misdaad Anoniem, also known as M. — an independent reporting point where you can safely and completely anonymously share information about crime. Your information can help catch offenders and stop crime.

Your identity stays anonymous

M. operates completely independently from the police. They cannot see your phone number or IP address, do not record your call, and do not store any data. Thanks to anonymous tips, cases are solved every day. You can report information about, for example, youth crime, suspicious activities in business parks, or drug trafficking. Check the important contact information (p. 30) for more information.

Neighbourhood agents 

Oegstgeest has four neighbourhood agents, the familiar faces in the neighbourhood and often a first point of contact. 

• John Welboren (Bloemenbuurt, Rijnfront and Nieuw Rhijngeest)
• Pieter Brussee (Poelgeest, Prinsessenwijk, Oranjepark, Zeeheldenwijk and part of the Schildersbuurt)
• Dennis Krom (Haaswijk, Morsebel and Klinkenberg)
• Jeen Brinksma (Voscuyl, Buitenlust, part Rijnfront) 

You can reach your neighbourhood agent by calling 0900-8844 or by filling in the contact form on the police website. This way, you will be directed to the available neighbourhood agent. Neighbourhood agents are also active on Facebook and Instagram: wijkagenten_oegstgeest. 

Municipal investigating officers (goa’s)

Anyone walking or cycling through Oegstgeest has probably seen them before: the municipal investigating officers (goa's), recognisable by their blue-and-yellow uniform. A goa is the same as a special investigating officer (boa), but employed by the municipality. The goa’s in Oegstgeest carry out daily supervision in the neighbourhoods and ensure that rules are obeyed. From incorrectly parked bicycles and bulky rubbish on the street to dog nuisance, checking traders in the Digital Purchasing Register and enforcing the Alcohol Act.

The goa’s in Oegstgeest are sworn in, are allowed to issue fines and even arrest people. To do so, they are required to undergo regular retraining and refresher courses. In doing so, they have to pass a nationally recognised exam to maintain their powers. But just as important: they are also there to make contact with residents and solve problems in a pleasant way.

Whether on foot, by bike or by car, the goas are visible, approachable and know the neighbourhoods well. Do not hesitate to ask or report anything. They are there for a safe, clean and liveable Oegstgeest - together with you.

All Traffic Care (ATC) 

In Oegstgeest, there are also supervisors from ATC. They work to maintain the quality of life in the village. These supervisors know the area well and enjoy talking to people. They are always ready to help and answer questions. They also point out undesirable behavior, such as littering or leaving bikes in walking areas. In addition, they perform visible, preventive patrols. They collaborate closely with the police and municipal enforcement officers (goa’s).

Emergencies can happen to us all, including in Oegstgeest. Think, for instance, of floods or prolonged power cuts. If Oegstgeest floods during heavy rainfall, the buildings of the emergency services are also flooded. This makes it more difficult for emergency services to help residents quickly. In such moments, it is vital that you can save yourself and your family until emergency services arrive. We call this self-reliance. Good preparation can make all the difference! 

Edwin Dusoswa, a veteran from Oegstgeest, has a lot of knowledge about self-reliance. He points out the importance of being well prepared for a crisis. "The point is: you never know what is going to happen. Today there is tension with Russia, tomorrow it might be something completely different - a banking crisis, natural disaster, or whatever. I prefer to focus on what I can influence. I cannot prevent a crisis, but I can prepare for the consequences - make sure I have food, or am mentally robust. Where you have influence, do something. And where you don't have it, let it go."

With a well-stocked emergency kit, you will be well prepared for the first 72 hours after a disaster or emergency. Putting together an emergency kit is often easier than you think. You probably already have most of the items in your home. Start putting together your emergency kit today and tick off what you have in it.

Edwin: "Stocking up is good, but do it smart: buy only what you really use. If you don't eat pea soup, why keep it? Think of it as a kind of mini-magazine you manage. I keep track of when things go past date, even put it in my diary, so that I put everything on time and keep it fresh all the time."

Store items in a convenient, easily accessible place. Use waterproof packaging such as a backpack, which you can also easily carry if you need to evacuate suddenly. Check the emergency stock every six months to see if the products still have a shelf life. Also consider your personal situation, for example baby food, medicines and food and drink for your pets. 

Check your emergency kit annually and replace products that are past their expiry date. By taking these steps, you contribute to your own safety as well as that of those around you. How prepared are you? Check out the website for more information: www.denkvooruit.nl 

•  Bottles of water. Think about 3 litres per person per day.
• Food with a long shelf life, such as nuts, canned vegetables and dried fruit.
• A battery-operated radio to stay informed
• A powerbank to charge your mobile phone and possibly other devices (remember the cords too!)
• A torch with extra batteries, candles and matches.
• A first-aid kit with instructions for use.
• Blankets to stay warm.
• A whistle to let emergency services know where you are.
• Cash.
• Tools, such as a hammer, saw and cutters.
• Disinfectant gel, toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitary towels, toothpaste and a toothbrush.
• Copies of identity documents and a list of important phone numbers.
• Spare keys to house and car.

Safe and pleasant shopping is something we often take for granted. But behind the scenes, a lot of hard work goes into keeping the shopping areas in Oegstgeest clean, organized, and safe. This is done through the Keurmerk Veilig Ondernemen (KVO), a collaboration between shop owners, the municipality, the police, and the fire department.

How does the KVO work?

To ensure that both shopping areas — Kempenaerstraat and Lange Voort — remain safe and attractive, the involved parties conduct inspections twice a year. These inspections take place during the day and in the evening, carefully examining the area to identify where improvements are needed. Think of dark corners that require extra lighting or obstacles that hinder accessibility. In addition, the parties meet approximately every three months to discuss improvement points and set actions in motion. These can range from small fixes, like replacing a broken streetlamp, to larger measures such as redesigning green spaces.

Why is the KVO important?

A well-maintained and safe shopping area makes visitors feel comfortable and eager to return. This benefits not only the businesses but also residents who do their shopping or want to enjoy a cup of coffee. The KVO therefore focuses on various aspects that influence the appearance and safety of the shopping districts, such as:

• Good lighting for a feeling of safety, even during evening hours
• Well-maintained street furniture and greenery for a neat appearance
• Clean streets and sufficient waste bins to prevent littering
• Accessible fire hydrants and easily reachable roads for emergency services
• Prevention of unsafe situations, like fire hazards

What does this mean for you?

Thanks to this approach, the shopping areas in Oegstgeest stay not only clean and tidy but, above all, safe and pleasant to visit. Do you have ideas yourself or notice any points that need attention? Please let the municipality or the shop owners’ association know.

Enter our contest and test your brain! Can you solve this rebus? Send your answer to veiligheid@oegstgeest.nl until 30 June 2025 for a chance to win a ring doorbell! Don't wait too long and take part soon! 

Who can you contact if something is wrong? TIP: Keep this page, for example in your meter cupboard. That way you always have all the contact details to hand.

Police 

In case of emergency 112 
Without urgency 0900 - 8844

Fire brigade 

In case of emergency 112 
Without urgency 0900 – 0904

Ambulance

In case of emergency 112

Meld Misdaad Anoniem 

0800 - 7000 (On weekdays from 08.00h - 22.00h and on weekends from 09.00h - 17.00h) 
Website www.meldmisdaadanoniem.nl 

Municipality of Oegstgeest 

Email gemeente@oegstgeest.nl 
Phone number 14071 (Between 09.00-12.00) 
Website www.oegstgeest.nl/ 
Safety page www.oegstgeest.nl/inwoners/wonen-verbouwen-en-leefomgeving/wonen/veiligheid  

FIXI 

You can submit a report via the Fixi website www.fixi.nl or app for IOS and Android. 
In case of dangerous situations, contact: 14071 (Weekdays between 09:00 - 12:00).
Outside municipal office hours, contact the police at 0900 - 8844; they will inform us.

Veilig thuis

Email info@veiligthuishm.nl 
Telephone 0800 - 2000. (On weekdays between 09:00 and 17:00. Outside these times only available for emergencies) 
Need immediate help? Call 112.

Meldpunt zorg en overlast

Phone: 088 - 308 3535 (Weekdays from 09:00 to 17:00)
Outside these hours: via Kwadraad 088 - 900 4000
You can also report via the form on: www.zvhhm.nl 

Animal ambulance 

Animal ambulance and bird shelter region Leiden 
Phone 071 - 517 4141 
Report animal abuse or neglect
Telephone 144

Oegstgeest Alert (WABP)

Report suspicious situations in your neighborhood via the WABP WhatsApp group.
Always report to the police as well. You can sign up via www.WABP.nl
GGD Hollands Midden Leiden 
Phone 088 - 308 3000 
Email info@ggdhm.nl

West Holland Environment Service 

Phone 071 - 408 31 00
National fault numbers
Gas and electricity 0800-9009
Water: 088 - 347 4747 

Gro-Up (youth work) 

Kawa Mazoori 06 48 96 94 03 
Simone Stap 06 19 78 91 78

Published by: Municipality of Oegstgeest 
Thanks to: Police, Fire Brigade, ATC, Wim Mol (Seniors Computer Café), Martin van de Wardt-Olde Riekerink (OegstgeestAlert WABP), Edwin Dusoswa, Gro-up youth workers 
Drawings: Moniek Achterkamp 
Design: T2 Communicatie / Knalgroen Grafisch Ontwerp
Photography: BuroJP