As matriculants celebrate the end of a tough exam period, there is much anticipation of the holidays and planned parties.
Several big parties and festivals are planned across the country for matrics to mark the end of their school careers.
Sadly, every year there are incidents of deaths through road accidents, drinking, drug overdosing and more.
There are also numerous incidents of theft of valuable items and vandalism.
‘We appeal to matrics to party responsibly and never neglect their own personal safety,’ says Charnel Hattingh, National Marketing and Communications Manager at Fidelity ADT.
She offers these easy safety tips for matrics who will be celebrating away from home in a possibly unfamiliar area.
• Before leaving your accommodation for the day or night, ensure that all valuables are locked away in a drawer or safe.
• Never carry large amounts of cash or go out wearing flashy or expensive jewellery.
• If your accommodation is a holiday house or apartment, make sure all the doors are locked, the windows are properly shut and that the alarm is activated if a system is installed.
• When out at different events and activities, be aware of your surroundings and arrange with your friends to keep an eye on each other and your belongings.
• If you are approached by a suspicious-looking individual, walk away and report it to the nearest security office or police.
• Never accept drinks from strangers and do not leave your drinks unattended. Spiking of drinks is still rife.
When it is time to return to your accommodation after a night out:
· Never leave without your friends.
· Do not accept a lift from a stranger; rather use transport provided by the event organisers.
· Driving after a few drinks is never an option. Call a cab or Uber instead.
· Consider appointing a designated driver or someone who agrees not to drink and will be responsible for getting everyone home safely.
‘Parents, please speak to your kids and share these tips with them. The reality is that matrics will be partying. Let’s encourage them to do it as responsibly as possible.’
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
