Crime Prevention : Safety Tips

Prevent smash and grab incidents

Some pleasant rides have been turned into nightmares by people who pounce on unsuspecting drivers. They smash the window or open the unlocked door and grab whatever they regard as of value.

Whether your vehicle is moving or stationary, bear the following in mind:

• Don't leave your cell phone or other valuables where they are visible in the car. This will attract thieves who may break your car window.
   
• Lock all your doors and close all the windows. Thieves steal handbags and other valuables by opening car doors or even breaking windows while the car is stationary at traffic lights or stuck in slow moving traffic.
   
• Do not have bags, briefcases visible in the vehicle. Lock all valuables in the boot of your car or behind the seat if it is a bakkie.
   
• Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious looking characters. Do not hesitate to report them to the police.
   
• When approaching the red traffic light at night, slow down so that you can only reach it when it turns green.
   
• Be wary of people standing at traffic lights or intersections. They may be innocent but perpetrators mix with these people while waiting for an opportunity to pounce.
   
• Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger.
   
• If you encounter obstacles in the road eg. rocks, tyres etc. do not get out of your vehicle to remove them. Rather reverse and drive in the opposite direction.
   
• Thieves target car parks. Always park your car in attended parking lots.
   
• When parking at night ensure that you always park in a well-lit area.
   
• Never sit in your vehicle without being conscious of your surroundings.
   
• Sleeping in a stationary vehicle is particularly dangerous.
   
• Always remove radios, CD or cassette players if possible.
   
• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, not even for a moment. Let them accompany you.

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