5 tips to stay safe at the beach

HEADING for the beach? Leave your valuables at home. Your beach bag should only contain important items such as suntan lotion, water and a hat.

With the high crime rate, local security companies are warning residents to be aware of their surroundings and to leave valuable items at home when out at the beach during the festive season.

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“Criminals are always looking for easy targets. They are attracted to people who appear to be distracted or not focused on their surroundings, which allows them to quickly grab an unattended item before disappearing,” says Charnel Hattingh from Fidelity ADT.

The following simple security tips can help ensure that your memories are positive and happy ones this holiday.

1. Leave expensive electronic items at home.
2. Lock up valuables. Consider beach bags that are easy to securely lock. This helps protect those items that you have to take with you.
3. Be alert. Yes, you may be hoping to relax, but keep an eye out for anyone that appears to be loitering around you. If anyone or anything feels out of place, look for a lifeguard or a patrolling police officer to assist you.
4. Keep an eye on children. If you are in a group with youngsters, make sure you always know where they are. Most public beaches offer an ‘Identikidz’ service which helps reunite lost children with their parents, thanks to an ID bracelet provided to all children.
5. Safety in numbers. There is a definite benefit to being among friends or acquaintances who can look out for one another. It means one person can look after the bags while the others go for a swim.

DID YOU KNOW?

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