Being vigilant is not optional in South Africa’s increasing crime climate, no matter where you find yourself. This is a stern reminder from Fidelity ADT as people plan their escape from the ‘concrete jungle’ over December.
Charnel Hattingh, Fidelity ADT’s Group Head of Marketing and Communications, says it’s important to remember that criminals don’t take a break; in fact holidaymakers are often even easier pickings for them.
There are a few key reasons for this, Hattingh highlights.
“Firstly, we’re more relaxed on holiday. It feels good to be out of routine and away from the everyday stresses of our usual lives. With the general mood being more peaceful, we could let some good personal safety habits slip, like checking doors are locked or looking after our personal belongings – opportunities criminals will certainly pounce on.
“Secondly, holiday destinations are often foreign to us; so we’re not that au fait with the lay of the land, so to say. You’re not likely to be on that area’s community group to be up to speed with the crime trends or even know where the nearest police station is. It could be tempting to amble down a lonely path at sunset or have a braai on an isolated beach. Again, sensible personal safety habits must prevail or you could be caught off guard.”
“Also, there are generally large crowds in popular holiday towns over December, and where there are crowds there are criminals aiming to steal your cellphone or vehicle – or even your child!”
Fidelity ADT recently raised the alarm on kidnappings and continues to urge the public to be very aware of this increasing trend, especially that of ‘express kidnappings’.
Hattingh explains that express kidnappers are after the contents of your bank accounts and the entire encounter can be over in a short time, if the criminals get what they want.
“People tend to think kidnappers are after high-profile business people for huge ransoms, but this isn’t always the case. Criminals know everyone has a phone and online banking. All they need to do is grab you, threaten you, access your accounts and let you go. This can happen anywhere to anyone!
“When you are on holiday, it is vitally important to remain as vigilant as you would be at home on a normal day and to exercise your usual security habits.”
Fidelity ADT advises you pack these personal safety and security tips alongside the suncream and flip flops this December:
Before you leave home: Notify your neighbour and security company that you will be away, check your security systems are all working properly, that all outdoor furniture and tools are locked away and that your pets will be taken care of.
Before you hit the road: Ask a certified workshop to conduct a pre-holiday check on your vehicle so that you don’t find yourself stranded along the road due to a small problem that could have been easily repaired.
On the road: Know who to contact in an emergency, such as your insurance company for roadside assistance, take regular breaks to refresh and heed warnings about crime hotspots. Many scenic picnic spots along the road are, sadly, no longer safe to stop at. Avoid stopping in isolated areas.
At your destination: No matter what type of accommodation you have, keep safety top of mind by always checking the doors and windows when you go out, activating the alarm system and electric fencing and being aware of suspicious people or activity in the vicinity. Keep your children safe by reinforcing stranger danger, having a ‘safe’ word only they and you know and by always knowing where they are.
“Common sense and trusting your gut instinct are often all that are required when it comes to personal safety. Our best advice is to take all your good home safety precautions and habits with you wherever you go this holiday season,” Hattingh concludes.