South Africans love the outdoors and will venture into nature more as the season starts to change.
A local private security company has drawn up a list of basic safety tips which it believes could contribute to keeping people safe while hiking, cycling or running.
Theunis Kotze, general manager (Inland) for ADT Security, believes one of the most effective safety measures could be implemented before you even leave your front door.
Kotze advised, “Always make sure that a loved one or a friend knows where you are going, what route you are planning to follow, and when to expect you back. This ensures that they can raise the alarm immediately if something goes wrong.”
According to him, people don’t trust their instincts enough. “If your gut tells you something is wrong or an area appears to be too dangerous to walk or run through, I would recommend you err on the side of caution.”
Kotze recommends these tips if you are planning to go for a run or a hike:
- Never go running or walking on your own. Find a community or social outdoors group in your area and join them on their outings
- If possible, avoid running when it is dark outside
- Wear bright reflective clothing so that motorists are able to easily see you
- Vary your route and steer clear of quiet, unfamiliar or unsafe areas
- Before you leave the house, ensure that your cellphone battery is fully charged
- Take sufficient money to be able to catch a bus or taxi, or make a phone call if necessary
- Never go out running while listening to music. This may prevent you from hearing an oncoming vehicle or a potential mugger.
