In order to safeguard Ugandans and their property during the Christmas season, Uganda police release an annual safety guide especially for those traveling out of the city.

ACP Polly Namaye, the Deputy Spokesperson of Uganda Police Force, released the guide today.

ALL PREMISES.

• Make sure all doors and windows are closed and locked with heavy-duty padlocks.
• all lights around the premises should be switched on starting 6 pm in the evening till 7.am, every day,
• Ensure extra safety tools like safety chains and padlocks are mounted in places likely to be broken, like the gates and door grills.
• Make sure your neighbors know that you are leaving the house and give them contacts in case of an emergency.
• All valuable items like pieces of jewelry, cash, and gadgets are kept in a store, safe before leaving the house.
• Stop daily or weekly deliverables during your absence to avoid alerting criminals.
• Inform your nearest police station or post about your absence, avail your contacts, departure, and arrival.
• Do not leave the access keys, in the flowers above the door or under the door carpet.
• Keep ladders and other tools away in safe places.
• Ensure the home environment around you, bushes, lodges; trees do not become hiding places for c criminals.
• Ensure your CCTV is working.

TRAVELING /MOTORISTS

• do not advertise on social media that you are traveling or away
• Have your car checked before leaving on a long road trip. ensure your toolbox and spare wheel are okay
• do not drink and drive
• Avoid texting while driving. it distracts attention
• observe the rules of the road, as most accidents tend to occur during the holiday season
• plan your route carefully
• do not pick up strangers or take a lift from them
• Always park in safe areas.
• Always attend to your luggage.
• Constantly check your mirrors and surroundings to ensure you are not being followed. If suspicious, drive to the nearest police station or phone for help.
• always keep car doors and windows closed at all times
• When approaching your gate or home, make sure no suspicious persons or vehicles are near your gate.
• avoid driving or walking alone at night
• Avoid parking next to vans, cars with tinted windows or trucks.
• never leave your car with the motor running
• Always locate your car keys prior to going to your car.
• Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag, and parcels. Do not put them, down or on top of the car while opening the door.
• while approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings ,
• Ask the mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
• top up your airtime and carry extra phone batteries, charging system
• When hiring taxis or boda-boda, use reliable services recommended.

GENERAL TIPS

• avoid dark and isolated places at night
• always carry your wallet in the front pocket
• Report lost or stolen items to the police immediately.
• always obtain information about areas that are safe or unsafe to visit
• When decorating, follow packaging directions for decorative lights. unplug all electrical when leaving them housed
• do not overload electrical circuits and outlets
• Take extra caution with candles and do not place them near flammable items or leave them unattended.

• Avoid loud music. it attracts burglars
• When cooking, avoid splashing cooking oil and keep flammable items like towels away.