Finding yourself in a life threatening situation involving armed robbers is not something most of us want to think about. It is, however, essential to have a plan of action, says Charnel Hattingh, Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity ADT.
Being South Africa’s largest armed response service provider, Fidelity ADT has first-hand knowledge of the prevalence of armed robberies and home invasions and where and when these are likely to occur.
Says Hattingh: “Apart from providing fast response to these priority crimes at homes and businesses, along with all other resources that may be needed, such as trauma counselling and medical assistance, we continuously educate our customers about how to react in situations like this.
“How you react when faced with a nervous, gun toting criminal can save your life, or cost you your life. All family members need to know what to do if uninvited guests come through the door intent on robbing you, or worse.”
The most prevalent crimes involving armed criminals are home invasions, hijackings, and follow-home robberies.
Hattingh says these are common scenarios:. Motorists pulling in and out of driveways, who are a common target and are often even held up in the garage and then forced back into the house.. People who withdraw large amounts of cash from banks are followed home and robbed.. Families entertaining outside at home or relaxing inside are surprised by armed robbers.. Armed robbers break into homes in the early hours of the morning when everyone is asleep and surprise the homeowners in their beds.Six tips on what to do in an armed robbery:.Stay calm and obey the robbers’ orders..Keep your hands visible and don’t reach for anything unless told to do so..Don’t try to negotiate with them. Speak when spoken to and do so clearly..Give them what they ask for and don’t lie about safes or cash in the home. The robbers have likely done their homework..Observe the robbers and try to gather information on their appearances, voices, language used, and so on. Look at clothing, distinguishing marks, height, and types of weapons, for example..Keep them informed to avoid surprise, like family arriving to visit.
