Police and security firms prioritise women safety
“Women are great leaders in the work place, they are amazing nurturers and caregivers and must be protected.”
Police and security firms have vowed to go the extra mile to protect women in August, also known as Women’s Month.
Police spokesperson Captain Jan Sepato said police would continue to prioritise the safety of women by ensuring that they are empowered with safeguarding tips.
“As much as women should see to it that they are in protected spaces, they have the right to move freely and we as police need to ensure that it is possible for them rooting out the criminals who are always looking to hurt them,” he said.
ALSO READ: Namibian star wins SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge Tshwane in record time
“We have been and will continue to be on the lookout at problematic areas.”
Sepato said women played amazing leadership roles in society and needed to be safeguarded.
“Women are great leaders in the workplace, they are amazing nurturers and caregivers at home. Wherever they go they play an important role.”
“We are here as police to create an enabling environment for them to flourish.”
Private security company Fidelity ADT spokesperson Charnel Hatting said women felt the fear of crime more.
According to Stats SA women feel more unsafe than men walking in their neighbourhoods alone both during the day and when it is dark.
ALSO READ: East police focus on safety for women with self-defence classes
“The feeling of fear can be addressed to some extent by exercising basic safety principals and by being vigilant,” she said.
She shared some tips that women can use to stay safe:
– Before leaving home, ensure a loved one or friend knows where you are going.
– If you are at a shopping mall, ATM or bank, remain alert of any suspicious individuals. Avoid dark and deserted ATMs, especially late at night.
– When driving, remember to ensure your doors are locked and to remain vigilant, especially when stopping at traffic lights.
– Keep your phone close but out of sight. If it is not an emergency call or text message, try not to answer until you have safely arrived at your destination.
– When arriving home, be on the lookout for any suspicious vehicles or people that might be lurking around your gate or front-door. If you feel unsafe, rather circle the block again.
– Keep the relevant emergency numbers on pre-programmed on your mobile phone. Having these numbers on speed dial makes it easier for you, especially when you are in a state of shock.
“Ask your security company if they offer a mobile panic button service, perhaps as an app that can be downloaded onto your phone,” said Hattingh.
“If you find yourself in an emergency, your phone will serve as a beacon to locate you as soon as possible.”
ALSO READ: Plans to add manpower to crime-stricken east reserve
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
