Safety of women and children remains a priority

Concerns about women and children’s safety grow as the festive season approaches.

Criminals countrywide continue to target women and children.

Local self-defence instructor Muima Makonano advises women to always carry protective tools like pepper spray, adding that investment in one’s safety is always good.

“During this festive and any other day, women should be responsible and know when to go and when to stay. Signs are always there listen to your gut, it is never wrong,” Makonano said.

“If you think someone is tailing you, drive to the nearest police station and report the matter.

“When someone goes missing, make sure you report them to the nearest police station as soon as possible as there is no waiting period.

“Also, have as much information as possible and a recent photo of them.”

Tips for keeping safe this festive:

– Keep a Taser or some sort of weapon for self-defence

– Make sure someone you trust always knows your location

– Be more observant of your surroundings

– Don’t just drink with any and everyone

– You can’t get drunk, unless you’re with people you trust with your life

– Inform relatives, friends or a partner where you are going, who you are going with and when to expect you home

– Before climbing into a taxi or any motor vehicle, look out for suspicious characters and keep a record of the registration number and colour of the vehicle

– If possible, memorise the route the driver takes

– Don’t accept liquor from strangers

– Don’t accept a lift from a stranger

– When you feel you are drunk, call someone you trust to take you home

– Avoid being on your cellphone all the time as it may distract you.

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: Rekord East

For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram