Hitchhiking has become a great concern for the Police as hikers are being robbed of their belongings whilst on the hiking spots.
The following are dangers of Hitchhiking:
- It increases your risk of being robbed by criminals
- People are also in danger of hit and run accidents especially in public roads.
- Some of the passengers pretend to ask a lift but would in turn rob the driver who picked them up, sometimes raping or killing them
- May leave you stranded in deserted and/or unfamiliar areas.
- May subject you to verbal or other harassment.
- May lead to physical danger.
 TIPS on how to protect yourself when hitchhiking
- Avoid hitchhiking at night
- Offer to pay for your trip even if it’s a little bit of money and avoid a lift in exchange for other favours
- Don’t hitchhike while you are drunk or under the influence of drugs
- Make a call to your friend about the details of the car you are travelling in or just send SMS
- Do not accept a ride in a car full of strangers
- Females should avoid a lift in cars with multiple men inside
- Find a best waiting spots especially in the open or on a road that is heading in the right direction
- Always ask where the car is headed first rather than offering up a destination
The Police are therefore discouraging people about hitchhiking, people should rather arrange in time for transport and make use of proper transport at the taxi ranks. If you are in danger please call Police Emergency numbers 08600 10111 or 10111.
Issued by Welkom Corporate Communication
Compiled by Jeretha Oosthuizen – Bloemfontein Courant
