How to avoid becoming a crime victim when driving
Distraction one of biggest problems.
There’s a myriad of mistakes motorists make which could lead to them falling victim to criminals.
Security practitioner Louis Grobler has the following tips for motorists:
-Make sure you are not being followed. This is particularly important after leaving a bank or shopping centre, as hijackers will often ‘shop’ there for their victims.
-If you have an electric gate, try not to pull up in front of it while you are waiting for it to open. If you do, hijackers can box you in by parking behind you.
-If you think you are being followed, perform four right turns before you go home. If the same vehicle is still behind you, go to the nearest police station.
-Clear all unnecessary foliage around your front gate and keep your front yard well lit. Dogs, circular security mirrors showing both sides of the wall and palisade fencing help to improve security.
-Lock your car doors when travelling.
-Tell someone your schedule so they can react if you don’t arrive within a reasonable time.
-Be wary of strangers standing at the gate. Hijackers sometimes pose as visitors trying to get hold of someone, and attack you as you pull up.
-When you arrive home, lock your vehicle away as soon as possible.
-If you have visitors, say your goodbyes inside your home and allow your guests to leave your property promptly.
-Maintain a gap between yourself and the car in front of you at an intersection, giving you an escape route in an emergency.
-Don’t allow yourself to be distracted at either the driver’s window or a passenger window.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
