BY being aware of your surroundings and by actively managing risks, you can make great strides in keeping safe while visiting any shopping centre or mall.
The first rule, according to Fidelity ADT’s district manager (KwaZulu-Natal) Ivan Govender, is being aware and being vigilant.
“Criminals depend on their targets being distracted. It is when people aren’t paying attention when they become easy targets for would-be thieves. The best option is therefore to be on the lookout for anyone following you or someone loitering at your car in the parking area. Trust your instincts,” said Govender.
He said another risk for visitors to any shopping centre is remote jamming.
“Always park your car in a well-lit, properly secured parking area, ideally with security personnel on duty. When you leave your car, make sure the doors are properly locked. Never just assume that your remote has in fact locked your doors. The extra few seconds it takes to make sure the car is properly locked and secured are worth it,” he said.
Govender said shoppers should also be careful on the way home. He recommends being on the lookout for anyone that could possibly be following you from the shopping centre and to drive to the closest police station or security provider guard house if there is any doubt.
“Remember the general hijacking safety tips such as waiting in the road for your house gate to open before driving in, and making sure the gate is closed properly behind your vehicle before getting out,” said Govender.
He also recommends carrying as little as possible in handbags or pockets and rather leaving unnecessary bank or store cards and large amounts of cash at home.
“Never leave a handbag, purse or wallet in a trolley. If you don’t use a bag or do not take one along, keep your wallet or purse in the front pocket of your jacket or trousers. If you do need to draw money at an ATM, use a machine in a busy area. Be aware of anyone standing nearby and don’t accept help from strangers when entering your PIN number. Put your money in your purse or wallet before you walk away from the ATM, and if you think someone has followed you from the machine, walk into the nearest shop or up to a mall security guard,” said Govender.
