It is a fact that the crime rate increases over the festive season.
As an initiative to inform residents, Newcastle SAPS has issued tips on basic vehicle safety:
Read: Child safety – Be smart and be safe
– Ensure your vehicle is in a good condition when leaving on a journey.
– Ensure the fuel tank of your vehicle always has fuel.
– Always lock your vehicles’ 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 at remote places.
– Park your vehicle in places that are well lit.
– If a stranger approaches you while in your vehicle, do not open the window wide – five cm is enough to have a discussion.
– 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.
– If your car is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual(s) involved in the situation, drive to the nearest police station for help.
– 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.
– If possible, put up a mirror against the front wall of your garage to see if someone is following you into the garage.
Also read: “We have the right to safety”
– Do not open your garage doors before your gates are closed.
