SAIA

South African Insurance Association

+27 11 726 5381

School Holidays: Safety Tips from SAIA

With the school holidays approaching consumers are urged to be on high alert about the following types of crimes that occur and to which unsuspecting holiday makers may become victim:

•           Holiday muggings and theft;

•           Car jamming devices, (used mainly at petrol stations and in parking lots at shopping centres);

•           Burglaries on holidays;

•           House robberies while away from home.

The SAIA wishes consumers a safe and happy holiday and if you are driving please drive safely.

It is important for consumers to be on alert during the holidays and to share these key tips with friends and family:

•           Ensure that your policies covering the building and contents of your home as well as your motor vehicles are up to date and that the premiums are fully paid;

•           Items such as cell phones, laptops and cameras etc. must be specified with your insurer;

•           Ensure that your vehicle is in a road worthy condition before leaving on holiday;

•           Advise the South African Police Services in your area as well as your security company when and for how long you will be away and who they can contact in your absence;

•           Before leaving on holiday cancel delivery of newspapers and other commodities;

•           Arrange for someone to collect your post regularly and to inspect the premises at various intervals while you are away;

•           This person should also know where the stop-clock for the geyser or water supply is, in case something goes wrong whilst you are away. A burst geyser can cause serious damage to the dwelling and contents;

•           Similarly they should also know where the electrical supply trip switches are to restore the power due to possible accidental failure. They should also check if the fridge and freezer are still on and operating normally, as a long interruption can cause damage to the appliance and/or contents;

•           Make sure that someone; (a friend or family member) knows where to contact you in case of an emergency;

•           Never drink and drive. Honour all traffic laws;

•           Ensure that all occupants of your vehicle are buckled-up;

•           When travelling on holiday make sure that you take regular breaks to avoid driving whilst tired or fatigued;

•           When stopping along the way at petrol stations etc. and when leaving your vehicle always physically check that your vehicle is locked to prevent culprits from jamming