Smash and grab incidents are an unfortunate reality in South Africa. These crimes involve breaking windows of occupied vehicles to quickly steal valuables. Victims often feel shock, injury, and trauma, which are made worse by the cost of replacing stolen items.
While it is impossible to completely prevent smash and grab incidents, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself from becoming smash and grab victim:
Don’t leave valuables on display
If you leave valuable items, like your phone or laptop, on display, you’re only asking for trouble. Smash and grabs are often opportunistic crimes. If a thief sees your expensive laptop just sitting on your front seat, of course they’re going to try to steal it.
The best thing you can do to protect yourself from becoming a victim of a smash and grab, is to keep your valuables out of sight. Make use of that spacious boot, and keep your valuables safe and sound. Remember: Out of sight, out of mind.
Be wary of people standing at intersections
Most of the street vendors at intersections selling things are trying to make an honest living. There may, however, be thieves mixing with these people while they wait for an opportunity to pounce.
To minimise risk, avoid engaging with street vendors or anyone approaching your vehicle. Keep your doors locked and windows up, and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you to allow for a quick getaway if needed.
Be cautious when waiting in the car
Whether you’re waiting at school, work, the mall, or elsewhere, keep your windows closed, doors locked, and avoid displaying valuables like your phone. Being vigilant can help reduce the risk of becoming a target.
Keep your children off their tablets/phones
Do your children play on their tablets or phones when you’re driving? While it might seem harmless, children using electronic devices in the backseat can also increase the risk of a smash and grab incidents. Children are often viewed as easy targets, as they may not be paying attention to their surroundings. Thieves often target vehicles where valuables are visible, and distracted passengers are less likely to notice suspicious activity.
To enhance safety while driving, consider implementing rules about device usage during car trips, especially in high-risk or urban areas. Keeping children off their tablets or phones in these environments can minimise smash and grab risks.
Get smash and grab film for your windows
Installing smash and grab film on your windows can reduce the risk of smash and grab incidents. Smash and grab film serves as a barrier that reinforces your windows, making them more resistant to breakage.
By holding the glass together upon impact, this film prevents your windows from shattering. This means that thieves cannot shatter your window to quickly steal your belongings.
Remain alert and always be conscious of your surroundings
Always remain alert when coming to an intersection or stopping your vehicle. Don’t be distracted by your hands-free phone conversations in the car. Being aware of your surroundings can help you spot potential thieves before they strike. Keep an eye on pedestrian activity, especially in areas known for high crime rates.
Sometimes precautions just aren’t enough
Despite your best efforts to prevent smash and grab incidents, these crimes remain a reality in South Africa. Even with the most stringent precautions, there’s always a chance that an incident might occur.
This is where Theftbuster Plus from Bidvest Insurance can provide crucial support, taking care of the additional expenses after a traumatic event like a smash and grab. TheftBuster Plus protects you against a wide range of losses, including minor car damage, trauma counselling cover, key replacements, cover for electronic devices, and more.
Complete the form below to get Theftbuster Plus from Bidvest Insurance.
