Outdoor safety tips

Police provide tips to help residents stay safe in parks and open spaces.

The more we get into the winter season, the later the sun rises and the earlier it sets, which could come with security risks for those exercising in public spaces. Linden Police Station has urged those taking morning or evening jogs on public roads and parks to do so with caution.

The later sunrise and earlier sunset could give criminals the opportunity to target walkers, runners and cyclists of their valuables. In the past, cases and incidents of common robbery have been opened at the police station and police are hoping that they can share the necessary information to help keep the public safe.

The police shared the following safety tips with the public:

•  Be extra vigilant during the high-risk times between 4.30am to 10am and 5pm to 7pm. These times provide opportunities for criminals to take advantage of low light conditions to target the many users of the parks.
•  Be aware of people and vehicles in the close vicinity, situational awareness is your greatest defence tool.
•  Try to exercise or use parks in groups, there’s safety in numbers. Look after each and every group member and do not let people fall behind.
•  Don’t use headphones, they reduce your awareness of what’s going on around you and make you vulnerable. Don’t display valuable items such as phones, cameras, keep them hidden.
•  Avoid being in areas of a limited line of sight such as thick bushes and shrubs, stick to paths that are open and preferably well used.
•  Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.