Vehicles play a vital role in today’s society, with most people relying on cars to commute.
Driving around in the safe cocoon of your car, the last thought on a motorist’s mind is to fall victim to a crime.
Captain Shooz Magudulela, police spokesperson, has issued a statement urging the community to follow safety tips in and around town:
Always lock your vehicle’s doors and keep the windows closed.
Do not leave your vehicle unlocked, even if you think you will be away for only a minute.
Avoid stopping in remote places.
Park your vehicle in places that are well lit.
If a stranger wants to talk to you while in your vehicle, do not open the window wide. A gap of five centimetres is enough to have a discussion.
If something seems suspicious, do not talk to strangers; rather be rude and drive away.
Limit your trips at night or at least take someone along with you.
Vary the route you travel to work and back if possible.
If approached by a stranger while in your car, drive off if possible or press your hooter to attract attention.
If strangers loiter near or at your driveway, rather drive past. If they loiter for a long time, report it to your nearest police station.
Car jackers may stage a minor accident so they can approach your car.
Do not reach for your purse or valuables. Leave everything behind if forced from the car. Your life is more valuable than your possessions.
Do not resist, especially if the thief has a weapon. Give up your vehicle with no questions asked and move away.
A lift club limits the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
Do not give strangers a lift.
A gear lock is an affordable and a very effective anti-theft device.
Safety Awareness When Parking/driving Your Vehicle
Avoid parking your motor vehicle where there are no security officers guarding other cars.
Do not leave your firearm in your car’s glove compartment (cubbyhole) or anywhere in the vehicle when you park the vehicle .
Make sure that all the doors and windows are properly locked when you park your car.
Valuable items like a laptop and camera should be locked in the boot of your car.
Do not use a cellular phone unless you have a hands-free kit.
Do not leave your goods/valuable items visible in the car.
Do not leave your handbag/briefcase visible in the car.
Do not leave your keys in the ignition.
Always lock the doors and close the windows when getting out of the car.
Try to fit an alarm and/or anti-theft device in your car.
Have your keys ready in your hand as you approach your car, especially if they are difficult to find in your handbag.
