In the spirit of Women’s Month this August, ADT has issued safety advice to women, counselling that the key to safety is always to err on the side of caution.
They advise to communicate your movements and ensure you can get help in the event of an emergency.
“Tell someone where you are going and the time you expect to return,” said Clive Humphrey, managing director of ADT Central. “Save to your mobile phone or memorise the details of the person to be contacted in the event of an emergency.”
It is important to avoid distractions, which make you an easy target. “Be aware of people around you when heading to your vehicle, especially at places such as shopping centres, petrol stations, ATMs and the likes,” said Humphrey.
Make yourself less of a target by avoiding wearing flashy jewellery or carrying large sums of cash, and by holding your handbag or other valuables close to your body.
It is easy to become vulnerable to criminals when driving. Ensure that all the doors are locked immediately after getting into the vehicle, and minimise your visibility and your distractions while driving.
“Never drive with a handbag or any other valuable items… in the view of anyone looking into your vehicle from the outside. Try and make your car a mobile-free zone so you can concentrate on your surrounds,” said Humphrey.
“If someone or something makes you feel uneasy, avoid the individual and leave the area.”
In public places, vigilance is vital. Be aware that you may be watched when drawing money from an ATM. Shield your pin number, and put your money away immediately. If you suspect you are being followed from the ATM, go to a safe, well-lit and busy place, and contact the police.
“If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at any time while using the ATM, cancel the transaction and leave,” said Humphrey.
Exercising and sharing a few easy precautions helps everyone to develop good safety habits and avoid or manage dangerous situations, he said.
Jeeez dude, have you gone full retard?