Below are 10 essential Safety and Security tips as you hit the highway this Xmas season.
1) Drivers should approach road check-points with caution and alertness because a check-point could be a setup to slow you down and ambush you. Be aware that some check-points could actually be mounted by criminals; and not the Police or Army.
2) Before you hit the highway ensure you have enough fuel for your destination; a full tank is advisable. Avoid stopping at road-side filling stations to re-fuel; only top-up at major filling stations in major towns along your travel route.
3) Similarly, if you must stop to take a break, ease yourself or buy some snacks or food, do so in major towns along your route.
4) Do well to schedule your travel times for daylight period; do not hit the road too early, or arrive late at night. Do not exceed recommended speed limits (about 100km/hour); and drive in accord with the road conditions.
5) Regularly observe the road to be sure traffic is flowing normally (to-and-fro); or that there is traffic on the opposite or returning lanes. Absence of traffic flow from the opposite direction could be a red flag.
6) Always have in your car, the more essential spares that could fail unexpectedly, and thus keep you stranded. These are spare tire, plug and fuel pump. Regularly check to be sure your spare tire is functional. Do not ignore this tip.
7) The Nigeria Police advises that you avoid the use of tinted glass or sheets on your car; because it passes a message to bandits and criminals that you are a very important personality (VIP).
8) The Nigeria Police also advices that you put your phones away and keep your attention fully focused on the road, even if you are not the one driving.
9) Travelers are advised to remove titles such as Honorable, Chief, Alhaji, Inspector, and other military ranks from contact entries in their phones.
10) Delete from your phones all revealing text messages and alerts, especially those from your banks showing large account balances.
Related: Essential Personal Security Tips
Related: Security Tips While on Nigerian Roads
Related: Card and Account Blocking CODES for Major Nigerian Banks
Related: Police Emergency Numbers for States in Nigeria
Stay Smart. Stay Safe. Stay Secure!
Jay Onwukwe
credit: Nigeria Police
