Police offer tips to keep women and children safe

KwaThema – With the increasing number of cases of violence against women and children, the police have issued safety tips to help in the fight against such crimes.

Police spokesperson Captain Thabo Sibuyi says it is important for women and children to remain alert at all times and be familiar with what is happening around them.

“Women should avoid walking alone at night and in the early morning hours.

“They should inform relatives, friends or their partners of where you are going, who they are going with and when they should be expected back.

“Before getting into a taxi or any other vehicle, check if there are any suspicious characters in the vehicle and also try to keep a record of the registration number and colour of the vehicle,” he says.

Sibuyi says women should also try to memorise the route the driver takes.

“Remember the face of the driver and people inside the vehicle and have the numbers of your relatives or police on speed dial.

“By all means, avoid sleeping in the vehicle,” Sibuyi says.

He adds women should not agree to have sex with anyone in exchange for a job, alcohol or other favours.

“They should not accept liquor from strangers or accept a lift from people they don’t know.

“When you feel you are drunk, call someone you know and trust to take you home.

“Avoid being on your cellphone continuously as this can be a distraction.

“If you are driving and are being followed, go to the nearest police station and report the matter,” he says.

Sibuyi also shared safety tips for children, which include creating a safe route your children can use when going home.

“Parents should teach children to avoid quiet and dark areas, passages and parks.

“They should always have full details of where their children are and who they are with.

“Parents should encourage children to walk or play with other children instead of alone.

“Children should avoid being on their cellphone or using earphones so they can observe what is happening around them at all times.

“It is important for parents to teach their children not to talk to strangers, go anywhere with them or accept their gifts.

“Educate them on possible danger signs and what they can do when they feel at risk or in danger.

“Help them memorise important cellphone numbers, their home address and their parents’ full details.”

Sibuyi says when someone goes missing, make sure you report this to the nearest police station as soon as possible, as there is no waiting period.

“Have as much information as possible, a recent photo of the missing person and a description of what they were wearing, if possible,” he says.

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