10 steps to prevent a smash and grab

With Roodepoort having two smash and grab hotspots among the top ten in Gauteng, motorists should use caution.

A smash and grab usually plays on the element of speed and surprise, and involves smashing through some sort of barrier (such as a vehicle window) and grabbing something of value (such as jackets, handbags, cell phones and laptops), said Louis Grobler of Security in Practice (Sip).

Here are some tips to prevent you from falling prey to this crime:

• Always keep all doors locked.

• Never open your windows or get into discussions with street vendors or anyone handing out flyers.

• Do not leave your handbag, cellphone or anything of value in plain sight.

• Always be conscious of your surroundings and remain alert when approaching an intersection or stopping your vehicle.

• If it’s late at night, slow down well in advance so that the light changes green by the time you reach the intersection.

• Keep an eye out for any obstacles on the road (such as tyres or rocks). Do not get out of your car to remove anything from the road.

• Leave a gap between you and the car in front of you to give you room to escape from the scene, if anything should happen.

• Be especially wary whenever you see broken glass lying on the road. Chances are that a smash and grab occurred just recently.

• If you don’t have smash and grab film installed, leave your windows open slightly (approximately 1 to 2cm, but less than 3cm) whilst driving. This makes the glass more flexible and more resistant to shattering if struck by a sharp object.

• Fit your vehicle windows with protective tinted smash and grab film where possible.

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.

Also Read:

Video: Suspected smash-and-grabbers caught camera

Smash-and-grab warning to motorists

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