Security practitioner Louis Grobler believes residents can take simple steps to prevent falling victim to crime.
Grobler has the following advice:
• Be aware of who is walking behind you.
• Ensure you are not being followed.
• Be aware of groups taking notice of you and move away.
• If a vehicle is driving slowly near you, observe and see if a pattern is developing.
• Keep an eye open for suspicious-looking people.
• Question the motive or intent when a stranger tries to engage you in conversation.
• If feeling uncomfortable with a situation, change direction.
• Always take the safest route and not the shortest one.
• Never take shortcuts through parks, fields, backstreets or alleys.
• Always walk in a group of three or more rather than alone.
• Advise backup of your route as well as the estimated time of arrival.
• Always let somebody know when arriving at the destination.
• Any change of route or deviation must be communicated.
• Memorise ‘safe’ places en route like a shop or filling station, which can be used when danger lurks.
• Ensure your cellphone has enough airtime for emergencies. Keep the battery sufficiently charged.
• Emergency numbers must be saved on the quick-dial option.
• Know the essential numbers by heart including the Neighbourhood Watch/ CPF/ police emergency numbers.
• Do not display the expensive items you are carrying i.e. i-Pod / mp3 / cellphone / money in public
• Only use your cellphone in a save environment like inside a shop.
• Do not divide your attention or listen to music but be aware of your surroundings at all times when walking.
• Headphones on your ears or plugged in are not acceptable and downright dangerous.
• If attacked or an abduction looms, yell on top of your voice to draw as much attention as possible to your situation.
• The best and safest option of self-defence is to flee if given the opportunity.
• Remain aware and alert of your surroundings.
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.
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