Keep your cool during an emergency at a mall

Joyous and prosperous moments synonymous with the Festive Season can quickly turn into disaster as this time of the year also goes hand in hand with increased criminal activities.
Knowing what to do in the event of an emergency can save your life, especially if robbers attack while you are shopping.
Customers need to remain vigilant at all times and should always be on the lookout for any suspicious activities and be aware of the people around them.
The golden rule if you are ever caught in the middle of a heist is to stay calm and according to Mall of the North Security Manager Jurgens Nel the main aim will be to preserve human life and the last thing desired is for shots to be fired.
He added that customers should not make sudden movements and should not look the robbers in the eye – completely submit to them under these circumstances.
“Make sure they can always see your hands and do not try to even take a tissue out of a pocket or a bag. Never attempt any heroism as it could be at the expense of others,” Nel warned.
Nel said that the goal of mall security is to get the armed robbers out of the mall without further incident and members of the public interfering with the process normally do not contribute to the goal.
Nel indicated that after all is safe one should report his version of the incident to security or the authorities on site.
“Ensure to leave accurate contact details so that you can be contacted should more information be required,” Nel said.
To avoid falling victim of crime synonymous with the Festive Season, take cognisance of the following tips provided by Nel:
Keep handbags zipped closed and carried in front of you – never in a trolley
Stay focussed and don’t let criminals distract you from keeping an eye on your valuables
Pickpockets often ask your help with something or push you to cause distraction
Ensure your car is locked by checking the door handles
Do not leave valuables in your vehicle
If you leave something valuable in your vehicle ask the car guard or security officer to keep a watchful eye
Be wary of special offers verbally presented in person that sounds too good to be true
Be aware of mall security and where they are positioned in case you need help
Be a patient and considerate shopper – malls are busy and crowded this time of the year.

Story: RC Myburgh
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