Women urged to be extra security conscious and safety savvy
If someone or something makes you feel uneasy, get away or get help immediately.
Women’s Month is an opportune time to focus attention on the safety of women of all ages across South Africa.
“Life is challenging for everyone, women included,” said Stuart Clarkson, managing executive of Fidelity ADT.
“We hope that following these tips will help keep women safe while they tackle the daily demands they face.”
Safety tips
Always be aware of what is happening around you.
“Being distracted makes you a soft target,” said Clarkson.
“Criminals are always on the lookout for soft targets and will take advantage if you are not paying attention.
“Being aware of your surroundings and potential threats is the first and most effective line of defence.”
He recommends cutting out distractions as far as possible.
This includes taking or making phone calls while driving, especially if children are in the vehicle.
“While driving, make sure your doors are locked and any valuable items are placed under the seat or in the boot, out of sight. If you are approaching your house, be on the lookout for any suspicious individuals and rather drive around the block if you don’t feel safe. Trust your instincts.”
Intuition is a powerful subconscious insight into situations and encourages women to trust their instincts.
“If a situation doesn’t feel safe, it probably isn’t. If confronted by a criminal, escape is always the best option,” said Clarkson.
“If you are able to, run away, yell for help – do whatever you can to attract attention.
“If the criminal is after your purse or other items hand them over or throw them in one direction and run in the other.
“When possible tell someone where you are going and the time you expect to return.
“Save emergency numbers on your phone and try to memorise at least one contact number you can call in the event of an emergency.
“Remember less is more when it comes to wearing flashy jewellery and carrying cash.
“If you are taking a handbag, carry it close to your body and not dangling by the straps.”
By exercising these precautions, Clarkson believes women can develop good safety habits that will assist them in avoiding dangerous situations.
“I encourage women to not only use these tips, but to share them with family and friends,” he said.
“Most importantly, if someone or something makes you feel uneasy, get away or get help immediately.”
Also read: #WomensMonth: Important hashtags and tweets to follow
#WomensMonth: Sexism is still rife when you search the web
#WomensMonth: 9 things women should know about what men actually want
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