“Be aware of your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts. If you think you are in an area you should not be, you probably are.”
This is the advice offered by Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications Officer, Lizzy Arumugam. Newcastle SAPS, as part of its Community Awareness Programme, is providing the following safety tips to be followed while out and about in town:
“Know where you’re going and the safest way to get there, especially if you’re moving around the city at night. Walk/run in well-traveled, well-lit areas, avoiding alley, and parking lots.”
– Create a plan of action; determine where you would go and what you would do if a dangerous situation arose.
– Know where the nearest police station is, how to contact the police in an emergency, what establishments are open late where you can seek refuge if necessary, and so on.
– On the street, walk confidently and at a good, steady pace.
– Keep your head up, pay attention to your surroundings, and avoid looking down at the ground.
“Bring a whistle or a similar type of noisemaker with you. In the event of an emergency, the sound may deter a potential attacker.”
– Take extra precautions when jogging or biking.
– Take a different route, travel with a friend, and avoid isolated areas.
– Do not wear headphones or play music while walking in the streets; these can cause you to become distracted from your surroundings and who may be approaching you.
– Tuck purses and packages safely between your arms and body; don’t overburden yourself with packages and bags as they are distracting and can give the impression that you’re defenseless.
– Carry only what you require; avoid carrying large amounts of cash or multiple credit cards, and avoid wearing flashy/excessive jewellery.
“Be cautious when using ATM machines. Use ATMs only in well-lit, heavily trafficked areas; ATMs physically located in stores are the safest,” concluded Arumugam.
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Email: Reveshni Douglas (Editor) at reveshni@caxton.co.za
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