Become familiar with your route

The SAPS offers safety tips to drivers after reports that smash-and-grab cases are on the increase.

Know your route. File image.

The SAPS is appealing to the community to be alert and aware when driving.

This comes after an increase in the number of smash-and-grabs being reported.

The police ask that residents take the following safety tips to heart:

Be aware of people approaching your vehicle to inform you that you have a flat tyre; the intention can be to steal items they see inside the car or to hijack your car.
Always close your windows when driving in the city centre.
Do not open your windows for hawkers along the road and/or at the robots.
Keep the doors locked and windows closed at all times.
Do not use a cellphone unless you have a hands-free kit and the phone is kept out of sight.
Lock your valuables in the car’s boot before departure.
Become familiar with your route before you start the trip; get a map of the route and study it.
Store luggage in the vehicle’s boot where it is out of sight.
Do not leave your goods/valuable items visible in the vehicle.
Do not leave your handbag/briefcase visible in the vehicle.

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