The reality is that women are more vulnerable to crime, because criminals view women as soft targets.
August is Women’s Month and ADT Security has some tips and advice to empower women.
- Emergency numbers:
Clive Humphrey, managing director of ADT Central said the key to safety is to always err on the side of caution.
“Tell someone where you are going and the time you expect to return,” he said.
“Save 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.
“Remember less is more when it comes to wearing flashy jewellery and carrying cash.
“Also, if you are taking a handbag carry it close to your body and not dangling by the straps,” Humphrey said.
- Distractions:
One of the major issues adding to crimes against women is that women are often distracted while going about their busy day (distractions can range from caring for the children, carrying shopping, to speaking on a mobile phone).
“A distracted person is an easy target,” said Humphrey.
“Women have to multi-task, but it’s vital that they also remain alert at all times.
“Be aware of people around you when heading to your vehicle, especially at places such as shopping centres, petrol stations, ATMs and the like.
“Ensure that you take a moment to check the street before pulling into a driveway, be it your own or a friend’s.”
- Driving:
If you are driving, Humphrey said, the first thing to do once you are inside your vehicle is to ensure that all the doors are locked.
“Never drive with a handbag or any other valuable items on a seat or in view of anyone looking into your vehicle from the outside,”he advised.
“Try and make your car a mobile-free zone, so you can concentrate on your surroundings and keeping you and your family safe.
“Most important, trust your instincts.
“Women have great intuition and should listen to their instincts.
“If someone or something makes you feel uneasy, avoid the individual and leave the area.”
- Public places:
Women should especially remain vigilant when they are in public places.
“When using an ATM, for example, it is important to shield your pin number and be alert to anyone watching you,”Humphrey said.
“Place your money in your purse/wallet immediately after the transaction and close the bag.
“If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at any time while using the ATM, cancel the transaction and leave.”
He added that women need to be particularly alert to any person who may follow them after they have used the ATM.
If you think someone is following you, immediately go to a safe location, where there are people, and contact the police.
Also never carry large amounts of cash with you.
Withdraw only the money needed at the time and rather seek out ATMs located inside buildings, supermarkets or other busy locations.
By exercising these precautions, Humphrey believes women can develop very good safety habits that will assist them in avoiding dangerous situations.
“I encourage women to not only use these tips, but to share them with family and friends,” he said.
