Important safety tips to remember this holiday season

 ·19 Dec 2024

The holiday season is in full swing in South Africa, and many people from all walks of life are leaving the rat race behind and going away to relax and take a much-needed rest.

However, the reality is that South Africa is still a contry plagued by high-levels of crime that does not go on holiday.

For many, leaving their homes for a peaceful getaway ends in tragedy and trauma because they return to find their house cleaned out or they fall victim to criminals at their holiday destination.

Charnel Hattingh from Fidelity ADT said that the mere fact people go to guesthouses and farms, lodges and chalets to “switch off” is what criminals take advantage of.

Hattingh warns that no matter where you are or what time of the year it is, you need to remain vigilant and to not neglect a thorough security check of your home before leaving.

Before leaving

“Do not leave anything to chance – ensure your gate is properly closed and secured and that all doors are locked and windows closed,” said Hattingh.

“Preferably, get a reliable person to come and turn lights on and off, open and close curtains and take care of your pets, so that it looks like someone is home.

“The most important is to arm your alarm system and outdoor deterrents, like electric fencing and beams. If these are linked to an armed response security provider, you will be alerted on your cellphone if anything happens at home,” she added.

Hattingh said that customers of private security companies can request extra patrols for the period they are away, for added peace of mind.

Arriving at your holiday destination

Hattingh emphasised that no matter how safe the establishment promises the area and property is, guests should not be complacent.

“Holiday accommodation spots are often targeted by criminals because they know people are more relaxed and can be taken by surprise [and] sadly, this happens far more often than people are aware,” she said.

As a result, she offers 5 tips for staying safe at your destination:

  • Always communicate with the establishment in advance and inquire specifically about security. Look for reviews online and don’t rely solely on what their website states. Obtaining word-of-mouth referrals is always advisable.

  • Protect your valuables by securing them in a safe or taking them with you when you leave your unit. Always ensure that you lock up and close the windows securely.

  • If you are in a remote area, it is best not to sit outside after dark. Enjoying bushveld fires and a drink after dinner is relaxing, but it can make you vulnerable.

  • Inquire with the manager about panic buttons and emergency contact numbers. An emergency can include not only a criminal attack but also a fire in your unit or a medical emergency.

  • It’s important to have a plan of action in case your family faces a crisis while on holiday, just as you would at home. While it can be challenging to adhere to a plan during a traumatic event, having clear guidelines can help everyone— including young children—know what to do and what not to do. The key is to ensure that everyone remains calm.

“Holidays should be about making lasting memories. By staying vigilant and keeping security top of mind – before you leave home and when you are on holiday – you can ensure your holiday memories are lasting for the right reasons,” said Hattingh.


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