Security Tips For The Season

Residential Security

* Be alert and aware of your environment. Keep a low profile.

* Always secure gates, doors and windows to your residence.

* Ensure security lights are functioning.

* Do not give vital/personal information to persons unfamiliar to you.

Social Outings

* Always let close family members know where you are going, and when you are likely to return.

* Vary your route to work or leisure locations.

* Avoid late outings unless it is absolutely necessary.

* Avoid crowded places.

* Always have your mobile phone with you, in case you need to make emergency calls.

Financial Transactions

* Do not discuss financial matters in the open.

* Avoid huge cash transactions. Use ATMs or online transfers, where necessary.

* When coming out of a bank, watch out for suspicious movements.

* Do not carry black polythene bags or big brown envelopes. It may attract criminals.

Travel Security

* Always pre-plan your journey and ensure the vehicle is in good working condition. If you must travel by public transport, use registered and well known transportation companies.

* Discuss travel details only with family members.

* Do not give rides to strangers, including persons dressed in uniform, as they may be armed robbers in disguise.

* Stick to main roads and avoid lonely routes.

* On approaching a checkpoint, stop and obey all instructions

* If at night, turn on your interior lights some distance away from the checkpoint.

* If chauffer driven, brief driver on your expectations of his behavior on the road.

Child Security

* When going out (cinema, shopping mall etc), always keep children close to you.

* Discourage children from talking to, or receiving gifts from strangers. It could be bait for kidnap

In the event of an Incident Occurring

* Comply, Comply and Comply with the demands of the criminals – DO NOT RESIST; DO NOT ARGUE.

* Do not play the Hero.

* Do not make eye contact with the criminals as they may think you want to identify them later.

* Seek permission from the criminals before making any sudden body movement, such as unfastening seatbelt etc.

* Be calm. Remember, most criminals are under the influence of drugs and alcohol and will pull the trigger at the slightest provocation.

* Always remember: Your safety is paramount, loss of personal possessions is temporary but your life is irreplaceable.