As much as we all look forward to the well-deserved April break, it is vital to remember to put your safety and the security of your family and home first. There are many hazards to keep in mind during this holiday season, so here are four areas of safety to keep in mind and what you can do to ensure an enjoyable trip for everyone.
- Secure your home:
If you are going away this April, it is important to keep your home safe and secure. The tips below will help you to ensure you don’t come home from your trip to the disappointment of a home break-in.
- Check windows and doors in your home and make sure they are secured with authentic burglar proofing methods.
- Set a timer for lights to give the illusion to would-be-robbers that the house is not empty.
- Notify your alarm or security company that you will be away so they can monitor your home more closely and contact you should there be a problem.
- Speak to a trusted neighbour and ask them to bring in your mail and notify you if anything goes wrong or looks suspicious.
- Lock up valuables left behind. Make sure any valuable documents, sentimental jewellery, or important items are locked up and well hidden.
- Don’t advertise your travel plans on social media as you never know who might see your post and target your home.
2. Safety on the road:
Every year, we hear about the countless tragedies that befall people driving to or from their holiday destinations. Here are a few tips to help prevent you from experiencing the worst case road scenario on the roads this Easter.
- Ensure your car is in prime condition, have the brakes, tyres, lights, shock absorbers, electronic components, windscreen wipers and windscreen checked before you leave.
- Always wear a seatbelt and ensure infants and young children have the correct seating equipment in place.
- Take regular rests, driving while tired can be more dangerous than driving under the influence of alcohol. Take a rest every 2 hours or 200km.
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, not only will your life be at risk, but you will risk the safety of everyone else on the road.
- Be vigilant, courteous, and considerate of other drivers on the road.
- Try to stagger your driving plans to avoid heavy traffic.
3. Airport safety:
Flying has become a very popular way to travel especially over the Easter break. However, this convenient alternative to driving also has its risks. Here is how you can stay safe when flying to your holiday.
- Keep track of your flight times and gates at major airports such as OR Tambo and Cape Town, where they have silenced their announcement microphones unless there is a change in time or gate number.
- Stay with your luggage at all times until your bags have been checked in. Make sure nobody touches or fiddles with your bags.
- Arrive for your flight early to avoid disappointment.
- Don’t carry spare luggage on for strangers as you never know what may be inside.
- Take special care if you use a car pick up service as these are not associated with the airport and could be a scam.
4. Beach safety:
The beach is the perfect place to enjoy your Easter holiday and soak up some vitamin D, but it’s important to stay vigilant. Here are some things to keep in mind while you’re at the beachfront.
- Ensure every family member is a strong swimmer when swimming in the ocean, as a rip current could take place.
- Stay between the beach flags as that is the area monitored carefully by lifeguards.
- Have a pre-designated place where everyone can meet up should you get separated.
- Stay hydrated and apply sunblock regularly.
- Keep a close eye on your children and remind them of stranger danger.
- Avoid drinking alcohol at the beach as it can dehydrate you, impair your judgement, and any glass bottles can be a hazard to other beachgoers.
- Keep a close eye on the weather as it can change quickly at the coast.
With these safety tips in mind and a reasonable amount of caution, your Easter holiday should be a pleasant and enjoyable one. Happy Easter South Africa!
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Sequ-Door has grown into one of the leading companies in South Africa for the manufacture and installation of high-quality aluminium doors and windows, expandable security products, burglar proofing and security shutters.
We specialize in home conversions and patio enclosures with our aluminium doors and windows, while our robust range of security products will put your mind at ease. All our expandable security doors and windows come standard with the Slam-Lock feature, providing instant security in times of emergency.
Email: sales@sequ-door.co.za
Tel: 087 073 6677
April Holiday Security Tips (4-minute read)