Safety tips while driving

Security in Practice CEO Louis Grobler dispensed some tips on how to stay safe while driving around in a urban environment.

– Stay away from dimly lit streets and travel on streets with working street lights.

– Leave your vehicle in gear while waiting at traffic lights – do not use your cellphone and keep your wallet and other valuables out of sight.

– Plan your route in advance – particularly on unfamiliar roads and destinations.

– Lock all your doors and keep the windows rolled up, leaving only about 2cm space open.

– Keep spare money in your car for a taxi, bus fare or telephone calls in case of a breakdown.If you see another motorist in trouble, do not stop.

– If you travel a regular route to and from work, make yourself familiar with businesses on the route that stay open late in case you need emergency assistance.

– Drive in the lane closest to the centre of the roadway when travelling in an unknown area, or areas you determine to be unsafe. Leave enough space between your car and the car in front of you to enable you to go around the car quickly if necessary.

– Keep your car keys and house keys on separate key rings.

– Minor car accidents are sometimes planned by criminals to set up a bump and rob or car-jacking. If you feel your car was bumped intentionally, remain inside your locked car, windows rolled up. Signal the other driver to follow you to the nearest police station to report the incident. Do not get out of your car to inspect the damage.

If your car cannot be driven, remain in your car and  use your cellphone to call for assistance. If not, sound the horn to attract attention and wait for help to arrive.

Details: Louis Grobler 074 102 4905.