Safety first, wherever your journey takes you

Whether you’re behind the wheel, catching a lift with a friend, using e-hailing, or hopping on public transport, the goal is always the same: to reach your destination safely. While we can’t always control what happens on the road, we can take simple, proactive steps to reduce risks and protect ourselves along the way.

Vehicle care
A safe journey starts with a safe vehicle. Make sure the car you’re travelling in is roadworthy and has enough fuel. Public transport vehicles are tested for roadworthiness, but if it’s your own car, regular checks can keep you covered. Wear and tear left unattended can lead to breakdowns or even accidents, and the last thing you want is to be stranded in a quiet area or late at night.

If you’re using an e-hailing service, double-check that the vehicle matches the details on your app. Confirm the driver’s identity and use the trip-sharing feature so loved ones know where you are and when you’re expected. Before climbing in, do a quick scan of the car for anything that feels off.

Be aware
Awareness is one of your best defences. Stay alert to your surroundings and pay attention to who might be watching you when you leave public places like shopping centres, fuel stations, or bus and taxi ranks.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or keeping valuables in plain sight. Sometimes, thieves target belongings rather than the vehicle itself. Keep car doors locked, windows closed, and if you’re on public transport, keep your phone tucked away until you arrive.

Safeguard with technology
Modern telematics have transformed vehicle safety. A tracking service can do more than just locate your car, it can protect you. Impact detection, for example, immediately alerts the operations centre if your car is involved in an accident, even indicating the severity of the incident.

Some services also feature an assist button for roadside or medical emergencies, and allow you to set up safe or no-go zones, sending alerts if your car enters a high-risk location.

SOS made simple
It’s always smart to let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to arrive. You can stay connected with family or friends using a service like Sayf by Tracker, which allows you to check the live location of your loved ones, and quickly request armed or medical assistance when you need it.

Don’t forget: if your phone is locked, emergency responders won’t be able to access your contacts. Write down important numbers on paper to keep in your bag or car, or store medical and emergency details in your phone’s lock screen settings if your device allows it.

Prevention first
No matter the type of transport you use, the principle remains the same: prevention is better than cure. Keep your phone charged, have a backup plan for emergencies, and always save key emergency numbers.

And if the unthinkable happens, remember: your safety matters more than your belongings. Stay calm, co-operate, and focus on getting away safely.