While it should be obvious to most people that certain scenarios are likely triggers for criminals, many people are still oblivious about the realities of crime in South Africa. Criminals move among us. If you are vigilant and alert, it is easier to identify suspicious people, vehicles or activity and recognise potential danger.
We remind you to take heed of the following and always go about your day keeping safety top of mind.
1. Be observant when pulling up to your gate/ into your driveway. Hijackings and armed robberies are seldom opportunistic. Always check for people or cars which look out of place when you turn into your street and don’t pull directly up to the gate before it is completely open. Stay in your car with the doors locked until the gate is closed.
2. Do not flash cash, expensive jewelry and your phone around. Opportunistic criminals are everywhere. Pricey jewelry, especially watches, is a criminal’s dream, and they are likely to stop at nothing to get that item off you. Keep your phone and money out of sight and leave expensive jewelry at home when you head to the shops.
3. Do not open the gate for strangers. Never open the gate to someone you don’t know, no matter what their story is. Criminals often pose as council workers or service providers and even as police officers. Be suspicious if you are not expecting anyone.
4. Do not employ people to work for you without doing a background check. Only employ staff through a reputable agency or word of mouth, always conduct a criminal check on the person and request copies of their ID.
5. Do not leave doors/ security gates unlocked. This leaves your entire family vulnerable. Security gates should be locked at all times and the keys placed out of reach.
6. Avoid walking or sitting in your car in isolated areas. This is a scenario opportunistic criminals will take advantage of. The more isolated the area the more likely the crime can turn violent.
7. Do not drive with valuables in full view. There is a beggar on every street corner and many of them are simply there to look for an opportunity to smash a car window to steal something valuable. Your phone, handbag, wallet and laptop must be out of sight at all times. The safest place is the boot.
8. Always check your car doors are locked before you walk away. Remote jamming is still commonplace, especially at shopping centres and garages. Always check- and double check- the car doors are locked before you walk away. It is not only the fact that criminals can otherwise get in and steal your valuables or your car, they could hide in your car too and wait for you to get back before forcing you to take them to an ATM to withdraw money, or worse.
Here are a few more safety tips during winter and for those training outdoors
• Always tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back
• Try to vary your route so that your routine does not become obvious to criminals
• If you are carrying valuables they should be concealed. It is not advisable to head off without a cellphone
• Carry your ID, medical information, and emergency contact information
• Stay alert by not talking on your phone. Leave the headphones at home so that you are able to hear anyone approaching you from behind
• Wear brightly coloured clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you notice someone suspicious on your route, take a detour to avoid them
• Don’t be distracted by strangers asking for help or directions.
• Be aware of being followed home. If you think you are being followed, call your private security company to report it and ask them to meet you at your gate.
Stay safe,
Courtesy Fidelity ADT
