A recent incident made headline news when a couple from the Democratic Republic of Congo were robbed and shot after being followed from the airport to a hotel in Sandton. This robbery was the latest in a string of incidents involving people targeted by armed criminals and robbed while travelling from OR Tambo International Airport.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has encouraged motorists to be cautious at all times, especially when travelling at night. As a South African motorist, it’s important to check your rear-view mirror while driving and to be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you are suspicious that someone is following you, there are precautions you can take to make sure that you stay safe.
- Keep Calm
If you suspect someone is following you, don’t slam on the accelerator to get away from them. Personal Security Expert, Robert Siciliano, suggests driving to a police station or even a fuel station where other people are around but never go straight home.
- Pay Attention
We do a lot of things on auto-pilot. How many times have you driven home only to pull into your driveway and realise you don’t recall the last three turns you made? If you think someone is following you, be extra observant.
- Mix things up
People make wrong turns all the time, but it’s rare for two people to make the exact same wrong turns at the same time. If you sense that someone is following you, try a short detour and turn away from your destination. If the following car mimics your maneuver, head to a public place or police station.
Another choice is to go to a fire station, hospital or keep driving until you come to a place well-lit and populated. Never get out of your car unless you know that you are safe.
- Press your Matrix Panic Remote*
Always have your panic remote close-by so that you can silently request assistance in the event of an emergency. Matrix customers can call for help by pressing the button for four seconds. This will send a distress signal to the Matrix control room, who will assess the situation before help is dispatched to your exact location.
Your safety is important to us. If you would like to find out more about the Matrix Panic Remote available with MX2 and MX3 devices, click here.