INTERNATIONAL visitors to SA – including backpackers working on farms – can take advantage of a safety campaign developed by SA Police.
Developed in the wake of two serious incidents which involved overseas visitors, the campaign features information about ridesharing, farm work, travelling in the outback, safe partying and other key information, such as the need to swim between the flags at patrolled beaches.
SAPOL Assistant Commissioner Peter Harvey said police wanted people to stay safe while travelling and recognised that communication and research methods have changed for modern travellers.
“Where once people spoke with travel agents and used guide books, now they are getting advice via social media and websites,” he noted.
“We want to make sure we are present in these spaces and conversations to help visitors stay safe when travelling in SA.
“The use of humour in our posters, and pocket cards, is intended to highlight just a few simple tips, while our rollout on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram is aimed at creating ‘shareable’ content.
“This is not about scaring people, but about recognising that people no longer ‘thumb a lift’ on the roadside, but rather they find a share ride in the digital space.”
SA Police Minister Corey Wingard offered his strong support to the initiative noting it provides more information for the public; particular tourists and other visitors, in how to be safe and travel safely throughout SA.
“SA is simply just an amazing place for people to come and enjoy the countless outstanding tourist locations, events and venues on offer,” he said.
“Not everyone has a huge budget when travelling and some tourists will look to ridesharing websites to get around to various locations.
“This initiative provides a range of easy to understand tips on ridesharing, safe partying, travelling in the remote areas of the state, gaining farm work and other useful information.”
Assistant Commissioner Harvey added the campaign, which has the support of the Commissioner for Victims’ Rights was not aimed just at backpackers, but a wide range of people who choose to visit SA.
Assistant Commissioner Harvey said it was also important for visitors to know how to contact SAPOL.
“We want them to be familiar with the number – 131 444 – to call for police assistance, while planning a safe trip so they don’t need to use that number,” he said.