With the festive season upon us, the familiar excitement of summer holidays fills the air as many South Africans plan a much-deserved escape from their hometowns.
However, the thrill of getting away can sometimes distract from essential medical and safety precautions. As such, travellers are reminded to remain vigilant during this high-risk period, particularly when it comes to road safety, home security and health considerations.
Here are some top health and safety hacks to make sure that you have a sound festival season.
Road trip safety
The holiday season is notorious for increased road accidents, making vigilance imperative.
- Prioritise rest: Adhere to the “6-hour sleep and 2-hour stop” rule: ensure six hours of sleep the night before a long journey and take a 15-minute break every two hours to combat fatigue.
- Check car roadworthiness: Beyond basic checks, ensure that tyres (including the spare) have at least 1 mm of tread, brakes are functioning effectively, and carry essential tools, including a reflective triangle and a flashlight for emergencies.
- Post-accident protocol: If involved in an accident, especially in unfamiliar areas, do not stop immediately. Instead, proceed to the nearest police station or a safe space like a busy petrol station before exiting your vehicle.
- Stay hydrated: With soaring temperatures, it’s crucial for everyone, particularly children and the elderly, to remain hydrated. Never leave people or pets in a parked car, even briefly.
Home and personal security
The festive season often correlates with increased travel and shopping, raising vulnerability to crime. Here are some vital security measures.
- Implement social media silence: Avoid posting travel plans or real-time updates on social media until after returning home to prevent advertising an empty house.
- Maintain the illusion of presence: Arrange for a trusted neighbour to collect mail and newspapers. Use light timers to create randomised lighting patterns in your home during the evening.
- Discreet disposal: When disposing of boxes from expensive gifts, break them down to avoid signalling to potential thieves that you own valuable items.
- Protect personal belongings: When shopping or in crowded places, use a front pocket for your wallet or a crossbody bag worn in front, staying vigilant to guard against pickpockets.
Summer health and water safety
As South Africans relish outdoor and water activities, make sure you follow these critical health and safety measures.
- Implement the “water watcher” system: Designate a sober adult to supervise swimmers to help prevent drownings, which can occur silently.
- Reapply sunscreen: In the harsh South African sun, reapply a minimum SPF 30 sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget often-missed spots like the tops of your feet, ears and neck.
- Food safety: Prevent food poisoning by promptly refrigerating cooked food that has been left out for over two hours, ensuring it cools quickly in shallow containers.
- Fire safety precautions: Inspect festive lights for frayed wires and never leave candles or lighting unattended. Ensure smoke detectors are operational and familiarise everyone with fire extinguisher use, remember the PASS acronym: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
- Prescribed medications: Don’t forget to carry your prescribed medications with you when travelling, and ensure you have a sufficient supply to last in case your trip home is unforeseeably delayed.
This holiday season, prioritising safety and health will not only enhance your festive spirit but also ensure that your time spent away is enjoyable and stress-free.
