Dear holiday makers, stay alert

It is that time of the year when learners across the country go back to their homes for holidays. Holiday is such an exciting opportunity to reunite with family and perform different tasks.

However, coming back home means mixing with a community littered with criminals ready to attack. Here are a few tips for you holiday makers to stay safe from such people and enjoy your holiday. You may be the target, but you do not have to be the victim.

Be crime smart!
• Never invite strangers into the house, especially when home alone.
• Never approach or enter a strangers’ car.
• A police officer is a friend who can be relied upon when you need help.
• Never play alone- always be with friends.

• Wherever you are, on the street, waiting for a taxi or boda boda, in an office, shopping mall, driving, etc., always stay alert about your surrounding. Send the message that you are calm, confident, and know where you are going.
• Trust your instincts. If someone makes you uneasy, avoid them or leave the place.
• Know your neighbourhood security-wise. Look out for locations of police in your area , hospital, restaurants that open late, just in case you need them.

• While walking, stick to well-marked streets. Avoid shortcuts through parking lots or corridors
• If a driver stops to ask for direction, avoid getting too close to the vehicle. Kidnap for ransom or sacrifice is real.
• Always carry your handbag close to your body, not dangling by the straps
• Put your wallet in an inside coat or front pants, not the back pocket
• Try using ATMs during day time. If you are uneasy about people near the ATM, do not use it, try other options
• Don’t wear shoes or clothing that make your movement uneasy, running to safety could be your last option.

Always remember:
• Never accept gifts from strangers. There are no free things.
• Adults rarely ask a child for help. If an adult asks for help, think twice before you act.
• If being followed by a suspicious character, run home or go to the nearest public place and yell for help.
• Report to your parents or police, anyone who acts suspiciously to you.
• Never enter anyone else’s home without permission or knowledge from your parents.
• Never play in deserted buildings or isolated places.

• Always carry some money for emergence.
While on your smart phone or internet, make sure:
• You slow down: spammers want you to act first and think later. If a message creates a sense of urgency; be careful. Online, many people want to fleece you.

D/ASP Benjamin Mudope,
Butalejja District CID.