This is how you can ensure peace-of-mind over your Easter travels

As the Easter long weekend approaches, many South Africans will be looking to take a short break - locking up their homes and hitting the roads for some much-needed down time with loved ones.

Unfortunately, increased traffic on the roads as well as leaving one’s home uninhabited or with a house sitter can be stressful.

According to a report from the Road Traffic Management Corporation, the number of fatalities on our roads increased by almost 33% from 207 in 2023 to 236 in 2024.

Marius Kemp, Head of Personal Lines Underwriting at Santam,says while this may be a perfect time for a break, the country’s roads can become unpredictable.

He adds that locking up one’s home and valuables to go away can also be risky. “Unfortunately, burglaries tend to be on the rise during holiday period. During 2023/24 more than 1.5 million South Africans reported house break-ins,” says Kemp.

“It is therefore crucial to take the necessary precautions and ensure you get to and from your holiday destination safely and have peace-of mind that your home and valuables will be okay while you are gone,” he explains. .

Holiday Road Trip Safety: What Every Driver Should Check

1. Don’t Skip the Maintenance. Make sure your car is road-ready. Check oil, coolant, lights, wipers, tyres (pressure, tread and alignment), and windscreen condition.

A chipped screen or faulty wiper can turn a stormy drive into a nightmare.

2. Map It Out. Sort out your route ahead of time. Plan breaks, avoid fatigue, and make sure all vehicle paperwork is current. Follow real-time updates via radio or @TrafficSA on X. And always have a roadside emergency contact on hand.

3. Stock the Basics. Keep a first-aid kit, torch, glow-in-the-dark triangles, extra water, and wet wipes in the car. It’s not glamorous, but it’s practical.

4. Stick to the Non-Negotiables. No drinking and driving. No texting at the wheel. Belts on for every passenger. No overloading. Traffic laws aren't optional just because it's a holiday.

Leaving Home? Lock Down Like a Pro

• Test the alarm system—a faulty alarm could void your insurance.
• Notify your security company and leave an emergency contact.
• Have someone check in—a neighbor, friend, or family member you trust.
• Update your insurance to reflect current valuables and household items.
• Shut off the water to avoid burst pipes while you’re gone.
• Unplug appliances (leave the fridge on) to avoid surges and fire hazards.
• Avoid complete darkness—leave a lamp on to deter prowlers.
• Secure all windows, gates, and locks.
• Leave curtains/blinds open to make the house look lived-in.
• Pack discreetly. Do it behind closed doors—no need to advertise your absence.
• Switch off the geyser to save power while you're away.

Holiday breaks are meant to recharge—not leave you dealing with accidents or break-ins. So whether it's the open road or a quiet beach you’re chasing, a bit of prep can make sure you return to the same peace of mind you left with.