In Port Harcourt city, our amiable Governor declared curfew from 7pm to 6am in the morning due to the killing of some policemen by ‘unknown gunmen’ in Rivers State. See https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-57040121&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwidtb_irsLwAhXD8uAKHd73DOkQFnoECAYQAg&usg=AOvVaw0a_45Y5V62fDmjIAEiAVkI for more details.
It was a serious yet funny situation as we were all trying to get home from our various offices. People were abandoning their vehicles and walking home in order to get to their various houses before 7pm.
Meanwhile, I was sitting cross-legged on the passenger’s side of the taxi I boarded to take me to Garrison while watching the latest development around me. My phone rang and I was trying to pick up the call when someone screamed from behind that I should keep my phone in my bag.
I was quite startled at the suddenness of his voice. But it was true. I had to quickly hold my phone away from the window as I was sitting very close to it. It was very important I adhere to this instruction so that I don’t fall victim to roadside thieves. This is one of the safety measures you need to take while on the road side.
Now let’s talk about important safety measures one needs to keep while on the road side
You should always pay attention to what’s going on around you, whether you are in a crowded area or you are alone. Miscreants often seek out people who are distracted or disengaged from their surroundings to target. This is important, take note!
You need to learn how to use the right bag while in transit. Cross-body bags are safer than shoulder or hand bags. Even back packs are not advised. This can prevent people from grabbing your bag as they run or drive away. There are different kinds of bags made specifically for travelers with features and designs such as slash-proof straps and locking zippers. Invest in a good bag that suits your needs and preferences.
Do not put anything in your back pocket!
Know this and know peace if you don’t want to be a victim of pickpockets.
There’s another thing…don’t draw attention to yourself. I noticed that some persons do this while using a public transport. They incessantly talk about not knowing where they are going even after they’ve been properly directed. While it is important to let where you’re going be known, it’s also wise you don’t disclose that you’re a JJC(Johnny just come). This is because many have fallen victims into the hands of kidnappers this way. If you don’t want to find yourself in such situations, adhere to simple instructions.
Now there are some other road safety rules everyone needs to take note of:
- Do not drink and drive. …
- Obey the speed limit.
- Do not use cell phones when driving. …
- Ensure the vehicle is in a roadworthy condition.
- Do simple vehicle maintenance and pre-trip inspections.
- Guard against distractions while driving. …
- Ensure all vehicle occupants wear a seat belt.
These simple road regulations if flaunted could become dangerous, that’s why we need to do the needful. There are also rules that children need to strictly adhere to, they are:
- Know Your Signals.
Teach them the different road signals. Schools should also teach it as part of their curriculum to aid better learning.
- Stop, Look, And Cross.
- Pay Attention – Listen.
- Don’t Run On Roads.
- Always Use Sidewalks.
- Crossroads and Pedestrian Crossing.
- Never Stick Hands Outside The Vehicle.
- Never Cross Road At Bends.
It is very important to take safety rules serious. According to the broadcast I heard on radio, “life has no duplicates”, so we need to protect it .
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