Page 7 - FWG October Issue 2025

Security

What is situational awareness,

and why does it matter?

What is situational awareness?
Situational awareness is the ability to remain aware of your
surroundings and recognise circumstances that could pose a threat
to your safety or security. Strong situational awareness skills enable
you to identify early warning signs of risk and to respond quickly to
potential dangers.

In busy or distracting environments, such as reception areas,
shopping centres, or public transport, it is easy to become absorbed
in your own thoughts. This distraction may prevent you from noticing
subtle signs of escalating risk. A lack of awareness does not mean a
threat is absent – it may simply go undetected until it is too late.

Why does it matter?
• Helps you detect threats before they escalate.
• Enables you to take preventative action.
• Builds confidence in navigating both familiar and unfamiliar
environments.
• Reduces your vulnerability to opportunistic crime.

Avoid complacency
Remain alert and adopt daily habits that reduce unnecessary risk:
• Acknowledge risks – Recognise that certain situations may leave
you more vulnerable.

• Protect personal information – Do not share your home address
online or in printed materials such as business cards.

• Stay alert in routine surroundings – Familiarity should not lead
to complacency.
Shopping and the Festive Season
Remain watchful when:
• Arriving at or departing from home or the workplace Situational awareness is not about living in fear – it is about
• Entering or exiting a vehicle staying alert, prepared, and in control. By recognising early
• Travelling to planned events signs of potential risk and responding appropriately, you can
• Following regular routes or journeys significantly enhance your personal safety and security.
• Moving through new or unusual environments
As the shopping and festive season approaches, 24/7 Security
• Project confidence – Always display an air of assurance, even if Services urges everybody to keep situational awareness top of
you do not feel it. A confident presence can discourage potential mind.
threats.

SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING

Please report all security-related matters immediately, without delay.

A delay in reporting = a delay in resolution.

On-site Control Contact details:
011 465 5466 or 066 261 7671

Fourways Gardens • 5 • October 2025