Follow-me-home incidents remain an ongoing concern. To help keep you and your loved ones safe, please follow these simple guidelines as you approach your destination:

Five minutes from home:

• Heighten your awareness and become fully alert to your surroundings.
• Put away your mobile phone to avoid distractions.
• Reduce the volume of your car radio or music.
• Open both the driver and front passenger windows slightly (about 3 cm from the top).
• Pay attention to external sounds and listen for anything unusual.
• Actively use all three mirrors – left, right, and rear-view.
• Take note of nearby vehicles and pedestrians.
• Ask children to remain calm and quiet.
• Request adult passengers to assist in observing the surroundings.
• Reduce your speed gradually.
• Keep your vehicle aligned with the road, parallel to your point of entry.

Be alert to:

• Suspicious individuals.
• Suspicious vehicles.
• Unusual activity.
• Unattended or suspicious objects.

Do not enter if you notice:

• Unknown individuals loitering nearby.
• Unfamiliar vehicles parked close to your entrance.
• A security officer failing to provide a clear signal.
• Unusual activity such as emergency responders on site.

Your safety is our priority.

24/7 Security Services – info@24-7security.co.za / 011 444 2237

• Keep pathways clear: Declutter rooms to create more walking space and reduce the
  risk of tripping.
• Prevent slips and falls: Use anti-slip pads under rugs and remove loose carpets from
  staircases.
• Protect sharp edges: Cover furniture corners to prevent injuries.
• Ensure good lighting: Install adequate lighting in every room, including hallways and
  closets. Nightlights can improve visibility after dark.
• Mark changes in floor level: Clearly mark steps or uneven areas.
• Secure cords and cables: Use cord covers or position them out of walking areas.
• Add handrails and grab bars: Fit sturdy handrails to staircases and install grab bars in
  the bathroom.
• Make the bedroom safe: Adjust the bed height so that feet touch the floor when
  sitting, and place a lamp or light switch within easy reach.
• Arrange frequently used items within reach: Avoid climbing or stretching by storing
  essentials at an accessible height.
• Improve bathroom safety: Use non-slip mats in the shower or bath, and keep water
  heater settings at medium to prevent burns.
• Maintain appliances: Regularly service electrical appliances, especially refrigerators
  and dryers, to reduce fire risks and protect medication storage.
• Avoid hazardous cleaning habits: Never mix cleaning products, as some
  combinations release harmful fumes.
• Wear non-slip footwear: Use anti-slip slippers or socks on smooth surfaces.
• Keep a cordless phone nearby: This helps avoid rushing to answer calls.
• Consider a medical alert device: This ensures help can be summoned quickly in an
  emergency.

For personalised safety advice or assistance, contact 24/7 Security Services:
info@24-7security.co.za / 011 444 2237

Be Alert at All Times

• When alone at home, ensure all doors and windows are securely closed and locked.
• Do not allow anyone onto the property without first confirming their visit with the homeowner (e.g., technicians, meter readers, or delivery personnel).
• Avoid going out to the gate when someone calls or uses the intercom – communicate via the intercom or from inside the house.
• Take extra care when putting out or collecting rubbish bins. Remain vigilant for suspicious activity and close and lock the gate immediately.
• Be cautious when hanging or collecting washing outdoors, as this may create an opportunity for intruders. Act quickly and lock the door behind you upon returning inside.
• Do not leave keys in doors or security gates.
• If a panic button is available, keep it with you at all times – ideally in a discreet location.
• Always know the emergency contact numbers and the address of the property.
• Never share information about the property, your employers, or household routines with anyone.

For further assistance, contact 24/7 Security Services:
info@24-7security.co.za / 011 444 2237

• Always keep children within sight and do not allow them to wander unsupervised.
• Only entrust children to responsible adults you know and trust.
• Never leave children under the supervision of other children.
• Do not leave children alone in a vehicle at any time.

Travelling Safely

• Ensure babies and young children are always secured in an appropriate car seat or with a seatbelt.
• Drive responsibly and avoid distractions.

Home Safety

• Child-proof your home or accommodation by keeping hazardous substances, sharp objects, and alcohol out of reach.
• Ensure all electrical wiring is safe.
• Secure swimming pools with an SABS-approved safety fence or safety net – ideally, both.
• Keep flashlights and batteries accessible in case of emergencies.

Outings and Public Places

• Before family outings, agree on simple safety rules – such as the “two giant steps” rule: children should remain within two large steps of you at all times.
• Remind children to always keep you in sight and call their attention back if they seem restless.
• Teach children what to do if they become separated:
• Look for a safe stranger, such as a parent with children or a shop assistant.
• For older children, agree on a meeting point in advance.
• Make sure they know your mobile number.
• Reinforce that they should never leave a mall or shop to search for you, no matter what anyone tells them.

Public Facilities and Groups

• Always bring young children into restrooms with you; choose well-lit facilities in high-traffic areas.
• Avoid leaving children alone in cinemas, play areas, or other public spaces.
• If older children go out without you, remind them to stay in groups. If approached by a stranger, they should shout, attract attention, and seek immediate help.

For further assistance, contact 24/7 Security Services:
info@24-7security.co.za / 011 444 2237

• Always stay aware of your surroundings and use well-lit, visible ATMs.
• Never share your card or PIN with anyone.
• Do not write your PIN down or keep it with your card.
• Insert your card only when prompted on the screen.
• Avoid using ATMs with blank screens – find another if unsure.
• Shield your hand when entering your PIN and cover the card slot to prevent card theft or swapping.
• Do not accept help from strangers – criminals often work in teams to distract and steal.
• If your card is retained, contact your bank’s official stop card line immediately – do not let anyone call on your behalf.
• Bank security guards are there for deterrence, not to assist with transactions – speak only to bank staff if you need help.
• Consider setting a daily withdrawal limit for added protection.

Carrying Cash as an Individual

• Withdraw only what you need and carry as little cash as possible.
• Use safer alternatives such as electronic payments, online banking, or mobile transfers.
• Avoid discussing your withdrawals or payments publicly.

Carrying cash for Businesses

• Vary the days and times you deposit cash – avoid creating a routine.
• Keep bank visits discreet; do not display cash or deposit slips openly.
• Avoid using company-branded vehicles for banking, especially on pay days.
• If cash volumes are increasing, consider a professional cash management service.
• Pay wages via secure electronic transfers rather than in public view.

Saving Clubs & Stokvels

• Avoid depositing or withdrawing cash on high-risk days, such as Mondays after month end.
• Ensure two or more trusted members are present for any deposits or withdrawals.
• Encourage direct electronic deposits into the club account rather than collecting cash.
• Arrange for pay-outs to be made directly to members’ bank accounts.

For additional support or guidance, contact 24/7 Security Services:
info@24-7security.co.za / 011 444 2237