In a country with one of the highest crime rates in the world, balancing busy lives with ever-present safety concerns has become part of daily reality for many South Africans.

From house break-ins and street robberies to hijackings and assaults, families often face safety risks at home, on the road, at work and even at school. According to Tracker Managing Executive for Sayf, Shaun Kirk, there is no single answer to personal security, but rather a layered approach that can help families feel safer.

“There’s no single solution when it comes to the security of loved ones, but rather a stacking of strategies that can help,” says Kirk.

He explains that combining practical safety habits, community involvement and modern technology can provide South Africans with greater peace of mind in an increasingly unpredictable environment.

Layer 1: Strengthening home security

According to Statistics South Africa, reported household burglaries have risen steadily in recent years, increasing from 1.9 million households in 2020/2021 to 2.6 million in 2024/2025.

Kirk advises families to prioritise home security measures wherever possible.

“Alarms, armed response services, electric fencing, security gates and lighting are all interventions that deter and prevent criminals from breaking into your home,” he says.

Although these systems can be expensive, he believes families should consider investing in a combination of security measures to better protect their homes and loved ones.

Layer 2: Staying alert on the road

Kirk stresses that situational awareness remains one of the most important aspects of personal safety while driving.

Motorists are encouraged to stay aware of their surroundings, especially at intersections, and to keep valuables such as cellphones out of sight.

Drivers should also avoid known crime hotspots where possible and leave enough space between vehicles at traffic lights to manoeuvre away quickly if necessary.

Installing a vehicle tracking device is another important safety layer.

“While a tracking device may not prevent a hijacking or theft, it greatly improves the chances of recovering your car,” says Kirk.

Modern tracking systems now include additional safety features such as impact detection and live journey sharing for families.

He also warns motorists to remain cautious when arriving home.

“Make sure there is no one around before you open your front gate. Criminals frequently take advantage of the moment gates are opening to gain entry into homes,” he says.

Layer 3: Building safer communities

Community involvement can significantly strengthen local safety networks.

Kirk encourages residents to join neighbourhood watch groups, participate in local safety initiatives and make use of community WhatsApp groups to share information and alerts.

Getting to know neighbours and maintaining communication within communities can also help improve response times and awareness during emergencies.

Layer 4: Using technology for protection

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in personal and family safety.

Apart from community messaging groups, personal safety apps now offer tools such as GPS tracking, emergency alerts, panic buttons and real-time location sharing.

Tracker’s recently launched safety app, Sayf, was developed locally and connects users directly with private security and emergency services.

The app also uses real-time prompts and data analysis to alert users and their families when entering high-risk areas.

“As part of the Tracker stable, Sayf leverages years of Tracker’s own data to give families 24/7 visibility of their loved ones,” Kirk concludes.