The holiday season has arrived and everyone is feeling festive.
ER24 is urging people to exercise caution and pay close attention to their surroundings during the festive season to avoid becoming a victim of crime.
The following tips should be kept in mind to ensure you have a safe and happy holiday:
– Ensure all your external house doors, gates and windows are closed and lockedif you are going away on holiday. Unnecessary switches, like the one linked to your television should be switched off – as well as your geyser. Switch your Christmas tree lights off before leaving. Do not leave lights on – if possible, install a timer. Ask someone you trust to pick up your post while you are away and do not inform too many people of your absence. Activate your alarm system – if you have one installed – before leaving. You should ensure that there is at least one person you trust, who knows exactly when you are leaving and returning.
– Try to avoid drawing large sums of cash at ATMs during this time – rather swipe one of your bank cards while shopping. If you have to draw cash, be aware of your surroundings and if you do see something suspicious at one of the ATMs, rather use another one. Do not allow anyone to distract you while drawing cash and when you leave, ensure you are not being followed.
– Shopping centres are very busy this time of the year, and, while you might be in a rush to finish your shopping, be alert at all times. Keep a close eye on your belongings and ensure your vehicle is locked at all times.
– While driving you should always be alert. Check that you are not being followed and be vigilant when stopping at traffic lights or stop streets. If you suspect you are being followed, do not go home, drive to your nearest police station or a busy area. Always keep your valuables in the boot and ensure your windows are closed and doors locked. Leave ample space between you and the car in front of you – in case you need to escape from a situation. You should always pay close attention to your surroundings when close to your home – if there is something suspicious drive past and phone someone to escort you home, or alert the police. When stopping in front of your gate and waiting for it to open, be alert and vigilant.
– Avoid speeding while driving and ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Do not drink and drive and try to avoid road rage. Before going away on holiday have your vehicle checked and always keep a first aid kit in your vehicle as well. Always wear your safety belt, ensure your children are buckled up appropriately and always obey the rules of the road.
– If something is wrong with your vehicle, do not stop on highways or areas that look unsafe. Rather drive to a busy area, if possible. Ensure you have roadside assistance numbers saved on your phone as well.
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
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