Tips to avoid follow-home robberies

SANDRINGHAM – The police have given tips to help prevent falling victim to follow-home robberies.

The Sandringham police have issued a few safety tips to help residents after a series of follow-home robberies from the airport.

Spokesperson for Sandringham Police Station Captain Mohlaume Mamabolo said the police urge residents to remain vigilant in order to avoid a hijacking or robbery after being followed from the airport and to report any suspicious behaviour to their local police station.

The police recommend the following if one suspects they are being followed:

Always check the rearview mirror to see if you are being followed.

Plan your route and let someone know what your it is and when to expect to arrive at your destination.
Don’t talk on your cellphone as you open your vehicle.
Have your key ready but not visible and unlock your car when you are close by.
Put all valuables out of sight.
Avoid driving with your windows open and keep the doors locked.
If you suspect you are being followed, drive to your nearest police station or a busy public area.
When approaching a red traffic light, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green.
Make sure that your driveway is well lit and clear of shrubbery.
If possible, park in a central well-lit area preferably with guards on duty.
When stopping behind another vehicle leave half a vehicle length in front so you can make an emergency escape if necessary.
Change your routes and your schedule if possible on a regular basis.
Make arriving at your destination safer by calling ahead and asking someone to open and close your gate for you.

Additionally, if residents are in a hijacking situation the police recommend the following:

Do not lose your temper, threaten or challenge the hijacker.
Do exactly what they tell you to do.
Do not resist, especially if the hijacker has a weapon. Surrender your vehicle and move away.
Do not reach for your purse or valuables, leave everything in the vehicle.
Be compliant to all demands set by the perpetrator.
Keep your hands still and visible to the hijacker.

Mamabolo added that following a hijacking, the victim should gather as much information as possible without posing a threat, including how many suspects and their descriptions, and how many firearms. They should also activate their vehicle tracking device.