Tips to stay safe at shopping centres this festive season

SHOPPING centres and malls are expected to become extremely busy with Black Friday and other festive season shopping deals and specials. Crime is also reported to increase during this time of the year.

The marketing and communications officer at Fidelity Services Group, Charnel Hattingh, reminded the public that criminals are attracted to large gatherings. It’s important to take the necessary steps to keep you and your family safe during a shopping trip.

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“Knowing what to do in the event of a mall robbery could save your life,” said Hattingh.

Should you find yourself in the midst of a robbery, she said the first thing to remember is to stay calm. 

“Shoppers always need to remain vigilant and be on the lookout for any suspicious activities and be aware of the people around them,” said Hattingh.

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Should people find themselves in a store that is being robbed, Hattingh advised that victims should, for their safety, co-operate with robbers.

“Listen to their instructions closely and follow their instructions. Try and keep as calm as possible. Everyone reacts in a different way, but try and breathe deeply until help arrives,” she said.

In addition, Hattingh warned people to not use their cellphone while the robbery is in process. “This could agitate the assailants,” she said.

She also advised that people, who find themselves in a robbery situation, seek a sheltered spot and keep low on the ground.

“Take note of the assailants so that you can pass this information on to the authorities, such as remembering what they looked like , what they were wearing, any distinctive clothes, markings and jewellery,” she said.

She advised parents to ensure that their children are always kept close to them. “Do not let children wander off while you are shopping,” she said.

Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting