Safety first: essential tips for South African Matric Rage celebrations

A vital safety message is being issued to thousands of South African school leavers as they prepare to embrace their new-found freedom at the annual Matric Rage events.

The Fidelity Services Group has issued an urgent public reminder: while this is a momentous occasion, safety must always remain the priority. From the fun-filled shores of KwaZulu-Natal to the vibrant celebrations in Plettenberg Bay, the excitement of this rite of passage can bring significant risks, including road accidents, theft, and alcohol-related incidents.

“We know this is an exciting moment for matriculants; they’ve earned it,” said Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group. “But our experience shows that planning ahead, staying aware, and using available safety technology can make the difference between a memorable celebration and a dangerous situation.”

The alarming statistics: why vigilance is key

The urgency of this warning is highlighted by alarming statistics. Road accidents are the leading cause of death among South African youth. Alarmingly, young people have accounted for around 40% of road fatalities in recent years, while cases of drink-spiking at social gatherings remain a serious, often under-reported, issue.

Hattingh suggests that open discussions between parents and children about safety can enhance awareness. “Young people today are tech-savvy, which can be a real safety advantage,” she states, emphasising the importance of using apps, location sharing, and group communications as vital resources when navigating the festive season.

Celebrate smart: essential safety checklist

Fidelity is urging school leavers to adhere to a strict safety plan to ensure their celebrations are memorable for all the right reasons.

• Plan Your Freedom: Always know where you are going, who you are with, and how you will get home. It is also crucial to share your plans and live location with a trusted contact for added safety.

• Leverage Technology: If you are driving, consider installing a real-time tracking app like Fidelity SecureDrive, which updates your location every two seconds, allowing for quick alerts in case of an accident.

• Carry a Panic Button: Devices such as SecureMe and SecureMe Plus ensure you have instant access to emergency services. These are compact, reliable, and monitored from a 24-hour control room.

• Stay Alert in Crowds: Always keep an eye on your friends and belongings. If you notice suspicious behaviour or an unattended drink, do not hesitate to alert security or the police.

• Travel Responsibly: Never walk alone or accept lifts from strangers. Use official shuttles or taxis and assign a sober designated driver to reduce risk.

• Protect Your Digital Footprint: Be cautious about posting your location or tagging friends’ whereabouts on social media to avoid potential risks from opportunistic criminals.

• Communicate: If you leave your accommodation, always inform someone of your whereabouts and expected return time. Saving a trusted contact as an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact in your phone can be life-saving.

With Fidelity’s extensive network of control centres and response teams on high alert, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to safety during this festive period.

“Our goal is for every matriculant to return home with great memories, not cautionary tales,” concludes Hattingh. “Freedom and safety can absolutely go hand in hand; it just takes awareness, planning, and smart decisions.”