12 December 2025
As we approach the end of the year, for many of us it’s a time to relax with family and friends. Here are a few reminders on how to stay safe and enjoy an accident-free, incident-free holiday.
When driving:
- If you are planning a longer trip, ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy well before you leave. Check the tyres (including the spare), brakes, windscreen wipers and water. Plan your route ahead of time and avoid unfamiliar shortcuts. Keep emergency numbers saved and your mobile phone charged.
- Never drive when tired, unwell, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or strong medication.
- Don’t allow yourself to be distracted by your mobile phone, loud music, passengers or other drivers.
- Rest in a safe place such as a petrol station if you feel fatigued. You should take a 15-minute break every two hours to remain alert.
- If you are a Safire client, contact Roadside Assist (0861 723 473 / 0861 SAFIRE) for help with roadside emergencies.
- When near the water:
- Never leave children unattended, even for a few seconds.
- Never swim alone or after dark.
- Listen to the lifeguards when at the beach: they know the currents and tides better than you do!
- Only swim in the designated area between the flags.
- If in trouble, put up your arm to attract attention.
- Watch out for rip currents: if caught in one, swim parallel to the shore.
- If someone appears to be in trouble while swimming, call for help rather than attempting a rescue.
- Avoid drinking alcohol before swimming.
- Wear life jackets when boating.
- When cooking:
- South Africans love to braai, but remember:
- Never leave a fire unattended or light one near long grass, overhanging branches, or flammable materials.
- Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby to douse unmanageable flames.
- Keep pets and children away, and don’t allow horseplay near an open fire.
- Ensure braai stands are stable and not placed on uneven ground.
- Keep long hair tied back and long sleeves rolled up.
- Check gas cylinders and connections for leaks before using a gas braai.
- Dispose of hot coals safely—ashes can stay hot for hours.
- When shopping and banking:
- Don’t leave valuables or shopping in a vehicle where they can be seen from outside. Lock them in the boot.
- Check that all vehicle doors and the boot are locked before walking away. Remote jamming incidents peak at this time of year.
- Shop earlier in the day when malls are quieter.
- Never sit in your car to make phone calls, check messages etc as this puts you at risk of being hijacked. Do it in a coffee shop or similar busy place.
- Be aware of your surroundings and who is near you. If you feel unsafe, go elsewhere. This is especially true when standing at an ATM.
- Avoid drawing large sums of cash. Use tap-to-pay or digital banking where possible to reduce cash handling.
- Shield the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Keep your handbag or backpack zipped and in front of you, not slung over one shoulder. Never leave your bag in the baby section of a shopping trolley for even a second…that is all the time it takes for a thief to snatch it or slip out your purse or mobile phone.
When going away:
- Alert your security company/neighbourhood watch beforehand.
- Test alarm systems, outside beams and lights to ensure they work.
- Don’t share your travel plans on social media.
- Keep valuables away from easy-to-access spots such as near windows and doors.
- Try to make your home look as if someone is there or get a housesitter. Use timers for lights to mimic normal household activity. Ask a neighbour to pop in regularly.
- Turn off your geyser to save electricity.
- Ensure all windows, outbuildings and perimeter gates are properly locked.
By staying alert and taking these few simple precautions, you can help protect your family, friends, property and yourself.
Please note: The information contained in this article is not offered as ‘advice’ in terms of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act 2002 as amended, and policyholders should consult with their intermediaries and the policy wording to ensure a full and complete understanding of the cover offered to them in terms of the Safire policy of insurance.
