For the Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID), it is of utmost importance to ensure that the Central City remains a safe environment for both the people who use it every day as well as visitors from near and far, and this is especially crucial during the busy festive season when so many more people come to town to enjoy the holiday offerings.
The CCID’s manager of Safety & Security, Muneeb “Mo” Hendricks and assistant manager, Alec van de Rheede, have years of experience in the safety and security sector. They have a number of tips they encourage every Central City visitor to keep in mind, irrespective of how much fun they’re having:
- Plan beforehand. If you want to go out for dinner or want to go out partying, plan your route beforehand and tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return. Also remember, it’s best to travel in groups and to never leave a venue with someone you’ve just met.
- Be aware of public lighting. The rule of thumb is you shouldn’t walk in areas with inadequate lighting. If an area looks dark or deserted, change your route or look out for a CCID public safety officer to escort you. And, of course, if you’re driving, try to park in a well-lit area as close to your destination as possible.
- Physically check that your car is locked. To avoid becoming a victim of remote jamming, try the handle to make sure your car is locked before you walk away. Also, don’t leave valuables in your car, as these may entice window smashers.
- Use accredited service providers. If you want to leave your car at home and take a cab instead, make sure it belongs to an accredited service provider.
- Don’t hang bags over the back of chairs. When you’re at a restaurant or club, keep any bags or personal belongings close to your body.
- Don’t use your cellphone while walking; make sure it’s safely tucked away.
- Avoid the obvious visibility of valuables such as jewellery or wallets. In addition, never carry large sums of money and – it should go without saying – avoid counting your money in the open. Never allow anyone to assist you at ATMs, be sure to only use ATMs in well-lit areas and watch out for people standing close to you, who may be looking over your shoulder as you enter your pin.
- Save the CCID 24-hour control centre number (082 415 7127) on your phone to report any safety issues. And if in doubt, find a CCID public safety officer and ask for help. There are around 90 officers patrolling the streets during the day and 70 at night. These PSOs are on the streets to keep YOU safe – so be sure to find them.
For additional tips to help keep yourself safe while you party, read this article here.
Image by CCID Night Manager, Gary Dyssel