Fidelity urges matrics to stay safe as Matric Rage 2025 kicks off

With the matric Class of 2025 finalising their exam and festive season celebrations starting to fill the calendar, one of the most anticipated events for South Africa’s school-leavers is Matric Rage 2025.

While the milestone marks a well-deserved moment of independence and freedom, Fidelity Services Group is urging young people to enjoy their celebrations with caution and smart planning.

Fidelity has released a comprehensive set of safety tips aimed at helping matriculants navigate both the fun and potential risks associated with the popular coastal celebrations.

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“We know this is an exciting moment for matrics; they’ve earned it. But our experience shows that planning, staying aware, and using available safety technology can make the difference between a memorable celebration and a dangerous situation,” said Charnel Hattingh, group head of marketing and communications at Fidelity Services Group.

External safety statistics reinforce the urgency behind these guidelines: young people account for roughly 40% of road accident fatalities in South Africa, and alcohol-related incidents remain a major concern during large celebrations.

Hattingh also encourages parents to stay involved.
“Young people are tech-savvy, which can be a real safety advantage. Apps, location sharing, and group chats can all serve as lifelines if something goes wrong. The key is to plan before the trip.”

With its national network of control centres and rapid-response teams, Fidelity said it is prepared for the busy festive season and committed to supporting young South Africans as they celebrate this milestone.

“Our goal is for every matriculant to return home with great memories, not cautionary tales. Freedom and safety can absolutely go hand in hand; it just takes awareness, planning, and smart decisions,” added Hattingh.

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Here are smart celebration tips for matrics from Fidelity Services Group:

• Plan your freedom – Know where you’re going, who you’re with, and how you’ll get home. Share your plans and live location with a trusted contact.
• Leverage technology – If you’re driving, install a real-time tracking app such as Fidelity SecureDrive, which updates your location every two seconds. This enables real-time accident alerts and faster emergency dispatch, where every second counts.
• Carry a panic button – Devices like SecureMe and SecureMe Plus provide fast, reliable protection monitored from a 24-hour control room, allowing you to send instant alerts in an emergency. Compact and easy to carry, they go wherever you go.
• Stay alert in crowds – Keep an eye on your friends and belongings. If something feels off, suspicious behaviour, an unattended drink, or unusual circumstances, alert security or the police immediately
• Travel responsibly – Never walk alone or accept lifts from strangers. Use official event shuttles, taxis, or assign a sober designated driver. Fidelity’s festive-season data shows that organised transport significantly reduces risk for young travellers
• Protect your digital footprint – Think carefully before posting your location or tagging friends at venues. Social media exposure can inadvertently put you at risk.
• Do not accept drinks from strangers – and do not leave your drinks unattended. Spiking of drinks is still rife.
• Communicate – If you leave the place where you are staying, tell someone where you are going and the time you expect to return. Save their number to your mobile phone or memorise the details of the person to be contacted in the event of an emergency and save them as one of your ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts.

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