Enjoy a safe day outdoors

Summer is a beautiful time to relish the numerous outdoor activities Gauteng offers.

Fidelity ADT encourages you to prioritise safety, especially if you are venturing out alone or are a visitor to South Africa.

Charnel Hattingh, group head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT, reminds us that personal safety is a shared responsibility between the police, private security and other stakeholders and each member of the public.

“It is wonderful to explore new places and see things through different eyes, but be aware that venturing into the unfamiliar makes you vulnerable to getting lost or perhaps making a bad judgement call,” she says.

“Unfamiliar areas and routes may also be prone to rapidly changing weather or terrain, and many nature spots do not have good cellphone reception.

“To ensure any outing you undertake is memorable for the right reasons and that you can get help in an emergency, it is advisable to explore trails in groups. Steer away from isolated areas unless a guide accompanies you.”

She further offers 10 tips for a safe outing:
1. Never hike alone; four or more in a group is safer.
2. Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back. Send a pin location if you can.
3. Have at least one fully charged cellphone with you and enquire beforehand about the reception in the area. Save emergency numbers.
4. Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit and be aware of anyone in the group with a medical condition or allergy.
5. Plan your route and stick to designated paths to avoid getting lost. Allow for ample time to finish the hike before it gets dark. If you are battling in daylight, things are bound to become much worse if you lose the light.
6. Don’t take risks or shortcuts and always respect restricted areas – there is a good reason the sign says ‘no entry’.
7. Preferably, don’t carry other valuables apart from a phone.
8. Be wary of everyone you come across, especially suspicious ‘hikers’ who aren’t wearing hiking clothes or carrying a backpack. If a mugger confronts you, hand over your stuff without resistance. The mugger can be armed with a knife or gun and your cellphone or hiking boots are not worth your life.
9. Pack sufficient water and snacks.
10. Dress appropriately. Pack a warm jacket, no matter what the weather. The weather can change quickly on hiking trails.
Emergency phone numbers to save on your phone:
• SAPS 10111
• Crime Stop 08600 10111
• Mobile phone emergency 112
• The control room of your private security provider
“Let’s not beat around the bush. Criminals take advantage of any situation and appear on hiking or cycling trails and rob people. It is advisable to stay away from deserted picnic areas or isolated sites and do some research before deciding on your outdoor adventure.
“Even if you know the area like the back of your hand, rather be safe than sorry by taking precautions before you set off. This way, everyone gets to keep special memories and returns home safely,” Hattingh concludes.
“Much of what keeps us safe is nothing more than common sense. Enjoy the beauty of summer responsibly and stay safe! ”

Compiled on behalf of Fidelity ADT by Cathy Findley PR

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