Pretoria - Matric pupils are expected to go all out to celebrate the end of their school years and a gruelling final exam, but Fidelity ADT has warned young people to party with caution.
Several school parties have already been planned by events promoters, artists like Hammanskraal Dr Malinga and even by pupils themselves. These parties are expected to continue throughout the festive season holiday period.
However, safety and responsibility are two words every adult, teacher and caring citizens would encourage the pupils to remember.
Fidelity ADT marketing and communications manager Charnel Hattingh said: “Sadly, every year there are incidents of matric deaths through road accidents, drinking, drug overdosing and more.
“There are also numerous incidents of theft of valuable items and vandalism. We are appealing to matrics to party responsibly and never neglect their own personal safety.”
Hattingh offered easy safety tips for matrics who will be celebrating away from home in a possibly unfamiliar area.
She said: “Before leaving your accommodation for the day or night, ensure that anything valuable is locked away in a drawer or safe. Never carry large amounts of cash or go out wearing flashy or expensive jewellery.
“If your accommodation is a holiday house or apartment, make sure all the doors are locked, the windows are properly shut and that the alarm is activated if a system is installed. When out at different events and activities, be aware of your surroundings and arrange with your friends to keep an eye on each other and your belongings.
She said matric approached by a suspicious individual should walk away and report it to the closest security or to the police. “Do not accept drinks from strangers and do not leave your drinks unattended. Spiking of drinks is still rife.”
She said, when it is time to return to your accommodation after a night out, matric should remember not to leave without your friends, refuse lifts from strangers, and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol and rather call a cab.
“Parents, please speak to your kids and share these tips with them. The reality is that matrics will be partying. Let’s encourage them to do it as responsibly as possible. It may also be worth speaking to your security provider about personal safety apps that are available as well as services such as Meet and Greets to ensure peace of mind,” she added.