Street safety tips for New Year’s Eve celebrations from SAPS

The year 2021 is almost over and many people will be holding celebrations to welcome the new year.

If you are one of those planning to go out to celebrate on the streets, then it is important that you and your possessions are safe.

Many crimes occur during the festive season, and it is always important to remember that criminals don’t go on holiday.

According to the South African Police Service, many cases of rape and sexual violence occur during social gatherings and other festivities associated with the holiday season.

So, it is important that as a woman, you avoid being on the streets alone at night or being in isolated places.

If you also have children, don’t allow them to go out unattended. A lot can go wrong.

READ: Restaurant industry joins calls to end curfew before New Year's Eve

Let’s look at other safety tips from SAPS:

Avoid an ostentatious display of expensive jewellery, cameras, mobile phones, and other valuables.

Keep your handbag with you, keep it closed or zipped, and do not leave it unattended.

Keep your mobile phone with you and do not leave it unattended.

Do not carry large sums of money with you.

Exchange your currency at a bank or at the hotel – never exchange it on the street.

Carry your wallet in an inside pocket – never in the rear pocket of your trousers.

Credit card transactions must be processed in your presence.

At night, stay away from dark, isolated areas.

It is always better to explore in groups and to stick to well-lit, busy streets.

Plan your route beforehand and, as far as possible, do not ask directions from strangers. A police officer or traffic officer will be happy to direct you if you get lost. Should you want to call a taxi, your hotel or the South African Tourism helpline (contact number: 083 123 6789) can recommend a reliable service.

READ: Good luck New Year’s traditions to borrow from around the world

Image courtesy iStock/ @jacoblund