With theConfederations Cup just around the corner, South Africa will have a huge inflow of visitors and movement of its own citizens between various stadia. At this time, safety in getting to and leaving the sporting venues is paramount to ensure SA hosts a successful Confeds tournament. Arrive Alive has drawn up a safety plan that really should be observed by all – not just between June 14  - 28, but at any other time when people are attending sports matches. Here we’ve outlined a concise summary of the safety plan. For more details, visit Arrive Alive.

Preparation and Pre-trip Planning

• Carefully plan the route to your destination – A GPS system and a decent map will provide valuable directions.
• Allow yourself enough time to reach your destination, find parking and walk to the stadium.
• Add to your phone a list of the most urgent numbers to dial in an emergency. 
• Check your car's roadworthiness. Headlights, indicators, stop lights, tail-lights, windscreen wiper blades, mirrors, brakes, steering, tyres, tyre pressures, exhaust system and possible oil or fuel leaks.
• Carry a roadside emergency kit.

On the Road to the Stadium

• Always follow the Rules of the Road and pay attention to road signs and guidance from  traffic authorities
• Drivers should not consume any alcohol. Stay sober or use a sober designated driver!
• Avoid distractions while driving. These may be from other road users, spectators, roadside activities etc.
• Be aware of intoxicated pedestrians – especially over weekends and near informal settlements. 

Arrival / Parking / Vehicle Safety at the Sports Stadium

• Be careful near places where busses or taxi’s appear to stand next to the road – passengers might suddenly decide to cross the road!
• Best advice is to park in a parking garage or parking area specifically dedicated to spectators - there might be additional security. Avoid parking in quiet back streets with poor lighting.
• In the event of an emergency it is imperative that emergency vehicles can reach any person with a life threatening condition – do not park in a way that may obstruct emergency vehicles.  

The Spectator as a Pedestrian around the Stadium

• Walk on pedestrian pathways if these are available.
• Drivers need to see you to avoid you -Stay out of the driver's blind spot. 
• Make eye contact with drivers when crossing busy streets. 
• Do not leave children unaccompanied next to the road. Children should not cross streets by themselves – they are small, unpredictable, and cannot judge vehicle distances and speeds.

Safety and Crime

• Walk confidently, be aware of what’s going on at all times and always keep to well-lit main streets.
• Keep bags closed, zipped and buckled. If someone grabs it, let it go. Your valuables can be replaced.
• Don’t be flash with your cash, phone, or MP3 player as these all show thieves you are worth robbing. If your phone rings, check to see who’s around you before you answer and keep calls brief.
• Remember, if chatting on the phone or listening to your MP3 player, you won’t hear someone come up behind you. Your hearing is your best defence.
• Do not confront aggressive or abusive road users. 
• Try to avoid confrontation but if threatened, shout, scream and run towards a popular or well-lit area.