AS PEOPLE prepare themselves to indulge in all things fun and entertaining for the festive season, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is warning persons, especially teenagers and young adults, to beware of human traffickers.

The agency is advising people to remain alert in all situations, whether they are out with friends at a nightclub, a bar or a public event.

When partying, people must never leave their drinks unattended or accept any food or beverage from strangers, the agency warned in a release.

USAID also advised that, before setting out for a night on the town, travel arrangements should be made to ensure that transportation home is secured.

Under no circumstances should anyone accept a ride from a stranger.

According to USAID, seemingly safe situations can result in people being tricked, kidnapped and forced into human trafficking.

People tricked into human trafficking often suffer harsh and violent conditions and end up working in the sex or unpaid labour industry.

Tips on how to identify traffickers

He/she:

Has a nice and friendly manner.

Tells you how much money you can make.

Has a nice car and will show you money.

Tells you he/she loves you and want to take care of you.

Warning signs

It is unimportant that you have no skills or qualifications.

Someone is offering to pay your expenses.

You cannot give exact details to family members about where you are going.

Someone is getting travel and identification documents for you.

What to do

Say no and keep far from them.

Do not get into a car with them.

Do not let them persuade you to get into go-go dancing or prostitution.