Amanzimtoti SAPS communication officer Captain Charlene van der Spuy shared the following security tips to heed this festive season, and in general.
When travelling
- Before you leave , ensure that your vehicle is in sound working condition and the spare wheel is inflated.
- Do not use your cellular phone while driving as it distracts your attention.
- Plan your route carefully before leaving, ensuring that you leave enough time for rest at a safe area.
- Never display valuables in your car, lock it in the boot.
- Never pick up strangers or take a lift from a stranger as you might expose yourself to becoming the victim of crime.
- If you leave for an isolated place, leave your details with a trustworthy person who can call for help if you do not return at a designated time.
- Park your vehicle where it is safe and where there is sufficient light.
Read also: 10 safety tips for women joggers
At hotels, guest houses and other accommodation
- Never leave your luggage unattended, unless it is locked away in your room.
- Store your valuables (especially firearms) in a safe or safety deposit box and keep your room locked at all times.
- If someone knocks, check who it is before opening the door. Do not allow strangers into your room.
- Hand your keys in at the reception whenever you leave your room.
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Safety in the street
- Never display expensive jewellery, cameras, mobile phones or other valuables
- Do not carry large amounts of money with you.
- Do not leave your handbag unattended, always carry your wallet in an inside pocket.
- Steer clear of dark and isolated areas at night.
- If you want to make use of a taxi, your hotel or nearest tourism information office can recommend a reliable service.
- Never participate in games of chance in the streets. This often leads to robbery. Ignore the players and leave the area immediately.
- Report lost or stolen belongings to the police immediately.
- Before you explore the area, obtain information from your hotel or holiday resort of the areas that are unsafe to visit.
- Never allow your children to be distracted or to wander away from parents.
- If you carry a firearm, it must be carried in the holster or similar holder and it must be completely covered. You must have full control over your firearm at all times.
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When going out on holidays
- Inform the nearest police station if you are going to leave for more than a week for the patrol to be conducted around your area during your absence.
- Also inform a reliable neighbour of your absence. The neighbour may immediately contact you if there is suspicious movement in your house.
- Avoid posting on social media if you have gone on holidays. Criminals are alerted on social media of your absence and movements therefore the chances of breaking into your houses increases.
- Before you leave for holidays, ensure the doors and windows are locked.
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