It's the season to be jolly, even for thieves and robbers. It is known that during the festive season, the unscrupulous persons among us tend to get wild. Here are some tips that can help you to protect yourselves and your assets.

IF YOU ARE HELD UP

1. Do not panic. Try to be as calm as possible.

2.Do not resist.

3.Obey instructions.

4.Be alert; look for peculiar features of the robber(s).

5.Some people take foolish risks and most lose. If a robber threatens you with a gun, your chance of safely disarming him is small.

TO DISCOURAGE CAR THIEVES

1.Fit steering locks, wheel locks and alarms in your car.

2.Faulty locks make it easy for a car thief. Ensure that the locks on your car are working properly.

3.If practicable, make periodic checks on your car when it is parked for extended periods.

4.It is important to maintain a record of the year, make, model, colour and registration of the car. Do not keep the information in your car.

FOR YOUR VEHICLE/S

1.Always lock your car even when leaving it for a short time.

2.Do not keep a spare key hidden on the frame or body of the vehicle.

3.At all times windows should be wound up completely. A slightly open window can render all other precautions useless.

4.Park as close to a building as possible when parking at shopping malls or stores.

5.Do not leave valuables visible in your car. Radios, cellular phones, cameras, attaché case and packages attract attention and can tempt thieves to break in.

IN YOUR VEHICLE

1.While waiting for someone, avoid parking at a lonely spot.

2.When visiting, drive onto the premises. If that is not possible, park at a spot which is well-lit so that the vehicle is clearly visible.

3.Female drivers should be very cautious when driving alone at nights. If being trailed, drive to the nearest place of safety, sounding your horn constantly.