Page 7 - Fourways Gardens August Issue 2023

Security

In celebration of Women’s Month, 24/7 Security
Services encourages you to share these safety tips
with all the women in your life.

3. Never get too comfortable
It is important to remember that just because you’re in a familiar
setting, it does not mean that you are safer than anywhere else. The
area around your home, your favourite stores or your regular walking
route may be areas where you feel at ease, but they aren’t necessarily
safer than anywhere else. Stay alert and aware.

4. Buddy up
Avoid walking alone. When you are out, especially in the early morning
and late afternoon, it is best to have someone with you. If you must be
out alone, try to stay in well-lit, public areas.

5. Always be prepared
When walking alone, carry a self-defence tool, like pepper spray or
a mobile panic button. Keep it at the ready, not tucked away in your
handbag.
6. Don’t be flashy
Never be flashy with items like your smartphone, purse or expensive
jewellery when you are out and about. It can serve as an open invitation
to would-be criminals.

7. Car safety
• When walking to your car, have the key out and ready to go before
exiting the building – that way, you don’t have to dig in your handbag
when standing by your car.
Photo by Joel Muniz • Lock your car doors once you are inside immediately, and begin to
drive. It is not safe to sit in an unlocked car and turn your attention to
1. Be aware – awareness is the most important line of defence something else!
Life is fast-paced and busy, and our minds may not be focused on what • If you feel uneasy, ask someone trustworthy, such as a store employee
we are doing or where we are going. People tend to be preoccupied: or security guard, to accompany you to your car.
whether they are walking, sitting in their cars, driving or entering their • If anyone asks for assistance with car issues when you’re alone, stay in
homes, you’ll often see people with their heads down, paying attention your car and offer to call for help. Do not get out and help them.
to their phones, unaware of who or what is around them. • Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition and that you have
sufficient fuel before departing. Check the spare tyre and make sure
And you’ll see many people, especially young adults, do everything that it is properly inflated in case you have a flat tyre.
with their earphones switched on. It is impossible to pay attention to • Always lock your car doors and store your belongings out of sight.
your surroundings when all you can hear is your music, podcast, video
or phone call. Keep your earphones out of your ears in public places, 8. If you’re harassed or attacked
especially when you’re in a potentially vulnerable situation. • If you are harassed, project confidence and be vocal. Say what is going
on loudly, go to a public space, and ask for help.
2. Trust your sixth sense • Escape is always your best option. Scream and run when possible.
Humans have the gift of a gut instinct, sometimes called the sixth • If push comes to shove, fight as if your life depends on it – because
sense. Unfortunately, many people overlook this instinct or even label there is a good chance it does. Do not be afraid to deal with the
it as being “paranoid” or “judgemental”. It is best to trust that feeling if potential legal repercussions of fighting or defending yourself. Your
you feel a situation or person could be unsafe. If you think someone is priority is to keep yourself safe.
following you or is acting strangely or suspiciously, report them. Better • If they tell you they won’t hurt you, don’t believe them. Most bad guys
be safe than sorry! are also liars.

Fourways Gardens • 5 • August 2023