NEWCASTLE KZN: Personal safety tips from Newcastle SAPS

Personal safety is more important now that crime has resurfaced as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic’s effects.

Lizzy Arumugam of the Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications office, has provided a list of safety tips to help residents and pedestrians stay safe while going about their daily chores and activities.

Become street smart:

• Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
• Know where you’re going and the safest way to get there, especially if you’re moving around the town/areas at night.
• Walk/run in well-travelled, well-lit areas, avoiding alleys and parking lots. Prepare a plan of action. Determine where you would go and what you would do if a dangerous situation arose. Know the location of the nearest police station and how to contact the police in an emergency.
• Walk confidently down the street at a good, steady pace. Keep your head up, pay attention to your surroundings, and avoid looking down at the ground.
• Carry a whistle or other type of noisemaker with you. In the event of an emergency, the sound may deter a potential attacker.
• When jogging or biking, take extra precautions. Change up your route, travel with a friend, and avoid isolated areas.
• Wearing headphones or listening to music is not permitted. These can cause you to become distracted from your surroundings and who may be approaching you.
• Keep purses and packages tucked securely between your arms and body. Don’t overload yourself with packages and bags – it is distracting and it can make you look defenseless.
• Only bring what you need. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or multiple credit cards, and avoid wearing flashy or excessive jewellery.
• When using ATM machines, use caution. Use ATMs only in well-lit, heavily trafficked areas; ATMs physically located in stores are the safest.

What to do if you’re being followed:

• Show your suspicion by turning to face the person. It sends a clear message that you will not be caught off guard.
• Change your direction. If you are being followed on foot, cross the street and change your pace. If the person who is following you is driving, turn around and walk in the opposite direction. – Go to the nearest store or public location.
• If you are being followed, ask to use (or find) a phone and call for help. Keep moving if there isn’t a store or public area nearby.
• If you have to scream (or blow your whistle) to get people’s attention, do it.

What to do if you’re being robbed:

• Do not resist, especially if you know or suspect that the robber is armed: “The best course of action is to hand over money and other belongings as soon as possible and try to disengage from this confrontational and potentially dangerous situation. Remember, your possessions can always be replaced, but you cannot,” said Arumugam.
• Maintain your composure.
• Take note of the robber’s appearance and immediately report the crime to the police.

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Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za

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