Tips to help you from becoming an easy target for criminals in South Africa
Being equipped to combat crime isn't something that everyone can do all the time, but if we want to be safe, we have to be prepared for anything.
It's hard for any South African to say with conviction that they have not been a target of crime in South Africa. And if not them then someone they know.
As part of a preventative measure on approaching crime, security company Fidelity ADT has shared some key insights on how to avoid being a target of crime.
You will be surprised to learn that some of these everyday things that we take for granted can be the biggest attractors of crime in our beloved country.
1. Running short on fuel
Leaving your fuel tank empty is sometimes unavoidable in this day and age, but it is important to note that this is a red flag when it comes to drawing attention to criminals.
Getting stuck without fuel, regardless of the time of day, can leave you vulnerable to lurking criminals.
It is vital to ensure that you have enough fuel for your journey and if you do get stuck, stay in your car with the doors and windows locked.
2. Not being vigilant when pulling into your driveway
This is a big oversight for many people. They let their guard down when entering their home and this leaves criminals in the winning lane.
According to Fidelity ADT, hijackings and armed robberies are rarely spontaneous, which indicates that there is a lot of planning involved.
Ensure that if you have an automated gate it is fully open before you drive in and wait for the gate to close before exiting your car, keep your panic device close by.
3. Sitting in your car in isolated areas
Sitting in your car is a big calling card for lurking criminals and bodes well for crimes of opportunity. It leaves you open to hijackings.
The more isolated the area, the more likely it will be violent.
4. Not checking your vehicle is locked
Believe it or not, even with all the notices and reminders, remote jamming is still a common crime. Make sure that your doors are locked and do a walkaround if necessary. We have seen crime videos of people opening your car doors while you are still inside the car and you unknowingly only check your door is locked.
This poses a risk not just to your valuables in the car but also a safety risk to your person. Criminals could potentially enter your car and wait inside for you.
5. Not doing a reference or background check on employees
It might seem unnecessary when hiring a gardener or helper, but trusting people has led to death in the past.
"This is equivalent to granting a stranger access to your property and home. Only hire staff through a reputable agency or word of mouth, always conduct a criminal background check on the individual, and request copies of their ID." (Business Tech)
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Image Courtesy of iStock/M-Production