Page 6 - Fourways Gardens September 2023 Issue

Security

SAFE SPRING EVENTS

We love celebrating spring and the warmer weather

for various reasons – the sense of newness as
flowers bloom, blue skies, balmy evenings and a
plethora of festivals, outdoor events and concerts

to enjoy. 24/7 Security Services urges everybody
to keep safety top of mind when attending events
outside of the estate. Here are our top tips.

Be aware of your surroundings: Always stay alert and
survey the area for any signs of suspicious activity or
potential dangers.

Plan your trip in advance: Research the event venue,
familiarise yourself with the area, and know the best
routes to and from the event. This will help you avoid
getting lost or being in unfamiliar and potentially unsafe
areas.

Arrive early: By arriving early, you will have enough
time to go through security screenings and find your
designated seating area. It also reduces the chances of
getting caught in the rush of the crowd.

Follow the event guidelines: Pay close attention to any
instructions or rules provided by the event organisers
and staff. This may include restrictions on items allowed
inside the venue, prohibited behaviour or emergency
procedures. Photo by Marvin Meyer

Keep valuables secure: Avoid carrying large amounts Spiking drinks
of cash on you or wearing expensive jewellery to events. The spiking of drinks is a reality, especially if you’re out partying. Please be
Keep your belongings safe and be mindful of pickpockets aware of the dangers and follow these tips to ensure that you do not become
in crowded areas. Keep your cellphone out of sight and a victim:
never leave it unattended on a table or bar counter.
1. Keep an eye on your drink – never leave it unattended as this increases the
Maintain communication: Ensure that your cellphone risk of someone tampering with it.
is fully charged before attending the event. Establish a 2. Stick to trusted sources – if you haven’t watched your drink being prepared
meeting point with your group in case you get separated or you’ve received it from an unfamiliar source, it’s best to play it safe and
and keep them updated on your whereabouts. not consume it. Don’t accept drinks from strangers.
3. Watch for suspicious behaviour – be mindful of individuals acting overly
Familiarise yourself with the emergency exits: Take interested in your drink or those who offer to buy you a new one out of
note of the closest emergency exits and evacuation the blue.
routes. Being aware of these escape routes can help in the 4. Use a drink cover to prevent your drink from being tampered with.
event of a sudden emergency or evacuation. 5. Be cautious with open containers such as cups – they are more susceptible
to being tampered with.
Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or you 6. It’s always a good idea to attend social events with friends or trusted
sense that something is wrong, trust your gut and take individuals who can keep an eye out for your safety, including watching
appropriate action. Notify the authorities or event staff your drinks.
if you observe suspicious behaviour or potential threats. 7. Trust your instincts – if something feels “off” about a situation or a drink,
trust your gut and err on the side of caution by not consuming it.
Be prepared for emergencies: Familiarise yourself with 8. Report any suspicious activity – if you see or experience any suspicious
basic first aid techniques and know how to respond in behaviour related to drink tampering, alert the authorities or event
case of emergencies like a fire or a medical incident. Also, organisers to prevent harm to yourself and others.
take note of the location of medical facilities or first aid
stations at the event venue. Please share these safety tips with teenagers and students in your household.

Fourways Gardens • 4 • September 2023