Selamat Balik Kampung! Top tips for a safe and happy party

Hello My friends! The holiday season is here again and that wonderful Balik kampung (back to our village) feeling has ignited.

But amidst the excitement of meeting loved ones, let's not forget the importance of safety.

Whether you are a seasoned Balik Kampung travel veteran or a first timer to the tradition, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth, safe and truly joyful celebration.

Prepare the Redama House in your absence:

1. Turn off the electricity, save big (and avoid fires!): Before you hit the road, do a quick sweep of your home and turn off all light switches and turn off appliances. This not only prevents unnecessary electricity bills, but also reduces the risk of short circuits that can lead to fires. Pro tip: Take a quick photo of the switches turned off for peace of mind while you're away.

2. Gas and water gone, Mosquitoes at Bay: If you want a longer trip, consider removing the tip of the supply gas canister. This will reduce the risk of fire in the event of a leak while you are away. Also, turn off the water mains to avoid possible leaks or plumbing problems. A good tip in dengue zones: Drain all the water from the shower to prevent Aedes mosquitoes from breeding.

3. Valuables? Take them with you: It's not easy. Whether it's a prized laptop, sparkling jewellery or an emergency wallet, don't leave valuables unattended at home. Take them with you or give them to a trusted friend or family member for safekeeping. Remember that thefts tend to increase during parties, so a little caution is enough.

4. fortress home: Make your home look lived in! Make sure all doors, windows and fences are properly locked. Consider using heavy duty padlocks which are less prone to breaking. Remember to take your house keys with you and not hide them in predictable places like under the doormat.

5. Lights on, burglars away: Do you feel uncomfortable leaving your home in the dark for long periods of time? Here's a good trick: install lights with timer settings inside and outside your home. Program them to turn on around 7pm every day while you're away, creating the illusion of a busy household. For added security, consider investing in an alarm system or closed-circuit cameras.

Social media safety for safe travel:

6. TMI? Not because of your absence: Let's face it, we all love to document our adventures on social media. However, avoid the need to share updates about your absence or family's whereabouts. This can attract unwanted attention from potential intruders. Think twice before posting things like:

• Family members who are not home

• Your home location or current location

• Personal information such as car registration numbers, ID card numbers or full names

Building a safety net around your home:

7. Neighbours and Police: A Winning Combination: Keep your neighbours and local police station informed of your travels. This allows them to keep an eye on your property while you are away. Some police stations even offer patrol services, especially during holidays.

Preparation for a smooth trip:

8. Car maintenance is self-care: Don't forget your trusty car before traveling to Balik Kampung. Inspect and maintain it thoroughly to avoid possible breakdowns or accidents on the road. Remember, a well-maintained car is a happy car (and a happy driver!). Pro tip: Book your car service well in advance because repair shops are usually full during the holidays.

9. Drive Smart, Arrive Satisfied: Safety First, always! Here are some golden rules for a smooth and safe ride:

Plan ahead: avoid last-minute getaways that can stress you out and cloud your judgment.

Fight fatigue: Feeling. sleepy? Take a break or delay your trip.

Seat belts and phone silence: Fasten and keep your phone away while driving.

Observe the speed limit: Don't exceed the speed limit - drive according to the weather. Mirror, mirror on the wall: Always check your mirrors before changing lanes.

Red means stop, yellow caution: Don't misinterpret traffic lights.

Keep a safe distance: leave enough space between you and the car in front of you.

Patience is key: Avoid cutting or using the emergency lane - it's not worth it..

Safe and Joyful Village Celebration: Your Ultimate Guide!

Heading back to the kampung for the holidays? This guide is your one-stop shop for a stress-free trip! Learn how to secure your home, what to avoid posting on social media, and most importantly, how to get there safely. Top tips, festive hacks, and reminders to make your kampung celebration truly special. Safe travels and Selamat Balik! #kampunglife #festivevibes #traveltips