BY REGINALD KANYANE

NORTH West police and emergency services have released a list of measure for residents to follow so as to be safe this festive season.

Provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone said that various operations would take place in various parts of the province.

“The operation will be conducted in various areas including, Mahikeng, Rustenburg and Vryburg. This is done to ensure that communities are and feel safe considering the festive season activities. The police will be out in numbers together with other role players to curb criminal acts and ensure stability.

“We urge our communities to cooperate with law enforcement officials during the operations. The operations will be conducted through the holidays. We also want to highlight that the communities take precautionary measures. They should apply safety hints at all times. People should avoid carrying a lot of cash during shopping. If you intend to make a large purchase, consider asking someone to accompany you,” he said.

Mokgwabone also added that parking areas may pose a security risk. He said shoppers were preoccupied with loading goods into their cars to notice suspicious persons.

“Avoid placing your wallet or handbag on a car seat or on the roof while loading groceries. Ensure the safety and security of your possessions when visiting restrooms. To all those who will be withdrawing cash from various ATMs, please memorise your pin. It is risky to write your pin on a piece of paper. If you think that the ATM is not working, cancel the transaction immediately and try to use another one.

“Always concentrate and keep your eyes on the screen when using an ATM. Also be cautious of any help from strangers. Avoid using an ATM if it looks like the card slot, keypad or screen had been tampered with. Report any suspicious persons to the police or security guards,” he said.

For those travelling out for days, Mokgwabone said that it was best to leave a relative or any trusted and known person to look after their houses and their neighbours of their absence.

ER24 Emergency Service spokesperson, Chitra Bodasing also shared the same sentiments. She said people should take necessary measures while going away on holiday.

   “ER24 urges everyone to celebrate with safety in mind. If you are driving to your destination, remember to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy. Make sure that you have a spare wheel, first aid kit and fire extinguisher in the vehicle. Please make sure that you plan your route properly. It will be wiser to take a note of all filling stations, police stations and hospitals around.

  “Carry a torch and reflective bib in case you encounter problems with your vehicle. Keep a list of telephone numbers of people to contact as well as your medical details and history (medical aid number, blood group and allergies for example). Let people you trust know your whereabouts and when they can expect you back,” Bodasing said.

  She added that those travelling with children must ensure that they are restrained appropriately.

   “For motorists, ensure that you are well rested before your journey. Take regular breaks and share the driving with someone licensed to avoid fatigue. Refrain from road rage and be alert at all times. Also alter your speed according to the environment you are in,” she said.

-TDN

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