Be safe this holiday season with these tips from the police

The SAPS have shared tips on how to be safer this holiday season, with crime being rife during this period.

Tips to prevent trio crimes: hijackings, house and business robberies.

Hijackings:

-Avoid being alone in a vehicle when travelling at night.

-Do not stop in any secluded areas.

-Always be alert when driving. If you suspect that you are being followed by a suspicious vehicle, drive to the nearest police station or call the SAPS emergency number (10111).

-Do not pick up hitchhikers, particularly when driving alone.

-Avoid distractions such as being on your phone or drinking.

-Increase caution at intersections

-Always keep a lookout for people loitering around your car or any sudden activity around your car.

House robberies:

-Always be on the lookout for suspicious persons and vehicles.

-Enhance security through fitting access doors with security gates and install burglar bars on windows.

-Request neighbours to keep an eye when you go away for an extended period.

-Do not open gates and doors for strangers.

-Verify the identity of the domestic worker and / or the garden worker before you employ them and check the authenticity of a contractor before you allow access to the premises.

Business robberies:

-Do not keep too much money in the business premises.

-Be on the lookout for suspicious customers.

-Do not keep the shop open till late.

-Avoid being alone, especially at night.

-Business owners must not open for anyone after the business has closed.

Safety hints to prevent contact crimes:

Excessive consumption of alcohol is the major cause of contact crimes such as common assault, assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm, rape, robbery and murder.

The following are safety tips to prevent contact crimes:

–Do not carry too much money when going to drinking places.

-Do not carry weapons when you attend social gatherings.

-Do not drink with someone you do not know.

-Avoid confrontation when under the influence of alcohol.

-Do not leave your drink unattended.

Safety tips at shopping centres and malls:

-Do not ask for help from strangers at ATMs.

-Do not display money in public.

-Do not ask for directions from a stranger; instead ask from law enforcement agents.

-Do not buy anything from a salesman at the door, outside the shop.

-Keep your personal belongings (such as handbag and wallet) safe.

-Always observe your surroundings; be at the right place at the right time.

Safety hints for victims:

-Comply, remain calm and do not argue with crime perpetrators.

-Do not make sudden gestures.

-Avoid eye contact but try to remember how the perpetrator looks by identifying and remembering special features.

-Try to get away safely from the area as quickly as possible.

-Do not be a hero; your life is worth more than anything.

Important contact numbers to remember:

Call Crime Stop – 0860010111

Crime Line SMS 32211

In case of emergency, contact your local police station or call the SAPS emergency number – 10111

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