There has been a significant increase in the number of reported follow home robberies that have occurred in various areas in Gauteng.
Here are some security tips that could help you to prevent becoming a victim of follow home robberies or hijacking:
- Do not wear flashy and expensive watches and jewellery.
- Always check the rear-view mirror to see if you are being followed.
- Plan your route and let someone know what your route is and when to expect you to arrive at your destination.
- Don’t talk on your cell phone when you open your vehicle.
- Have your key ready but not visible and unlock your car when you are close by.
- Keep all valuables out of sight.
- Avoid driving with your windows open and keep the doors locked.
- If you suspect you are being followed, drive to your nearest police station or a busy public area.
- When approaching a red traffic light, slow down so that you only reach it when it turns green.
- If possible, park in a central well-lit area preferably with guards on duty.
- When stopping behind another vehicle, leave half a vehicle length in front so you can make an emergency escape if necessary.
- Change your routes and your schedule regularly.
- Make arriving at your destination safer by calling ahead and asking someone to open and close the gate for you.
- Make sure you have an emergency number on your cell phone, you need to know who you want to phone in an emergency and dial that number immediately.
- Try to keep as calm as possible and stay focused on driving to a safe place.
- Slow down. It is harder to follow somebody that is driving slowly but keeps on moving.
- Turn your radio down so you are fully aware of your surroundings.
- Put your headlights on bright and put your hazards on, day or night, as you want to attract as much attention as possible and scare away the would-be robbers/hi-jackers.
- Do not go home as they will know where you live.
- Head for a busy place if possible, such as a 24-hour garage, hospital or a police station where it is more difficult to follow you in and where there may be surveillance cameras.
24/7 Security Services – info@24-7security.co.za / 011 444 2237