Tips to enjoy your holiday safely

The festive season is here and it’s time to relax, recharge, and unwind.

Sadly, a peaceful getaway could end in tragedy and trauma for residents if they return and find their houses cleaned out or if they fall victim to criminals at their holiday destination.

According to Charnel Hattingh, group head of communications and marketing for Fidelity ADT, the mere fact people go to guesthouses and farms, lodges, and chalets to ‘switch off’ is what criminals take advantage of.

“You need to remain vigilant, no matter where you are,” she warned.

Hattingh recommended that people focus first on their home safety before they leave for their holiday and then on the tips to follow at the holiday destination itself.

“In the rush to get to your destination, it is imperative that you do not neglect a thorough security check of your home before leaving. Do not leave anything to chance. Ensure your gate is properly closed and secured and that all doors are locked, and windows closed.

“Preferably, get a reliable person to come and turn lights on and off, open and close curtains, and take care of your pets so that it looks like someone is home.

“The most important is to arm your alarm systems and outdoor deterrents, like electric fencing and beams. If these are linked to an armed response security provider, you will be alerted on your cellphone if anything happens at home.

“Please don’t leave any tests or maintenance of your system till the very last minute,” said Hattingh.

As law enforcement agencies and security providers are ready to welcome holidaymakers to our country’s many beautiful holiday spots, visitors and accommodation operators must play their part.

Do not leave windows or doors open as this may invite opportunistic criminals. Draw the curtains and close the blinds when you leave the guest house so that no one can look through the windows while you are out for the day.

It’s also recommended to not leave valuable items in your car when you go down to the beach. Remote jamming suspects are ready to pounce, and it is therefore important to always lock your car properly.

“Holiday accommodation spots are often targeted by criminals because they know people are more relaxed and can be taken by surprise. Sadly, this happens far more often than people are aware.”

Hattingh offers these tips for staying safe at your destination:

1. Always speak to the establishment beforehand and ask specifically about security. Look for reviews online. Do not only rely on what their website says. Getting word-of-mouth referrals is always a good idea.

2. Take care of your valuables by locking them away in a safe or taking them with you when you leave your unit.

3. If you are in a remote area, preferably do not sit outside after dark. Braai fires and a little after-dinner tipple are wonderfully relaxing, but you can be vulnerable.

4. Ask the manager about panic buttons and emergency contact numbers.

5. Just as you should have at home, have a plan of action in place in case your family is held up on holiday.

6. Ask for the contact details of the closest police station, the local neighbourhood watch, and the armed response company that looks after the property you stay at.

Also Read: Mall hosts crime awareness campaign ahead of festive season

Also Read: Help families and furbabies stay together this festive season