Being distracted makes you a soft target. And the reality is that women are continuously multi-tasking throughout the day, juggling work, family and more, and thinking of the next thing to be done.
Becoming distracted is easy.
“But being distracted makes you vulnerable and criminals will take advantage of this,” said Theunis Kotze, General Manager ADT Inland Region.
1 December marked the start of 16 Days of Activism for no Violence Against Women and Children, and Kotze believes this is a great time for women to take note of their daily routines and what habits could become safety hazards.
“Firstly, minimise distractions. Put your phone away when out and about. Speaking on the phone while putting your kids or shopping into the car, for example, means you are concentrating on the call and not keeping an eye on your surroundings. It presents criminals with a great opportunity to hijack you or make off with your belongings.”
If you are driving, Kotze said the first thing to do once you are inside your vehicle is to ensure that all the doors are locked.
“Zip up your handbag and never drive with it or any other valuable items on a seat. Try to make your car a mobile-free zone so you can concentrate on your surrounds and keeping you and your family safe. Also, remember to stop and concentrate when approaching or leaving your house. Wait in the road for the gate to open before pulling into the driveway.”
He added that it’s also a good thing to change your driving routes and departure times every now and again.
“We are creatures of habit, which makes us predictable. Criminals scoping out your house will know exactly when you leave and come back, and which routes you take. Keep them guessing by leaving slightly earlier or later and taking a different route to drop the kids at school, for example. The same applies to things such as your running routes and times, gym visits, and even your locking up and leaving routine.”
Kotze believes that the key to safety is always to err on the side of caution.
“When possible, tell someone where you are going and the time you expect to return. Save emergency numbers on your phone and try to memorise at least one contact number you can call in the event of an emergency. Remember, less is more when it comes to wearing flashy jewellery and carrying cash. Also, if you are taking a handbag, carry it close to your body and not dangling by the straps.”
By exercising these precautions, Kotze believes women can develop very good safety habits that will assist them to avoid dangerous situations.
“I encourage women to not only use these tips but to share them with family and friends. Most importantly, trust your instincts. If someone or something makes you feel uneasy, get away or get help,” he concluded.
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