Tactics for Safety
Carjacking - what is it?
Carjacking is a violent crime that has been on a dramatic increase. It is a crime in which a car is taken from a person by force - at gunpoint or knifepoint, for instance.
Carjacking may occur for many reasons - to flee a crime scene, to feed a drug habit, for gang initiation, or just for kicks.
Whatever the reason, it is extremely dangerous for the victim, as carjackers have been known to seriously injure or even kill their victims.
Who is at risk?
Anyone can be at risk of carjacking. Carjackers have shown no preference for type of car, time of day, or location of attack. However, carjackers most frequently target unlocked cars with unsuspecting motorists.
What can you do?
Like most crimes of opportunity, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. First, understand that anyone can be a victim. Then, take the following steps to ensure your own safety.
Entering your car
As you approach your car, walk confidently and assertively.
Observe a wide area around your car as you approach. Check the interior and exterior before getting in.
Have your keys ready so you can unlock the car and enter quickly.
Lock all doors as soon as you're inside.
Safely place children in the car, get in and lock doors immediately. Then buckle their car seats or seat belts.
Be sure your doors are locked before raising the garage door.
Driving your car
Plan your route and don't drive into unfamiliar areas.
Keep your doors locked and windows up at all times.
Constantly observe all around you - front, sides and rear.
Be observant as you approach intersections and stay alert while stopped. Carjackers often approach cars stopped at lights or signs.
When stopping to use outdoor phones or ATM's, choose well-lit and highly visible areas.
Don't stop to help stranded motorists. Instead, call the police for them.
Leaving your car
Park in a well-lit place, near a main aisle, in a lot with an attendant if possible.
Park where you have an unobstructed view all around you. Don't get out if there are suspicious people in the area.
Keep your keys out in case you need to quickly reenter your car.
Move quickly away from your car after exiting.
At home, let the garage door close completely before unlocking doors or exiting your car.
What to do if you're confronted
If you're safely locked in your car, drive away cautiously but quickly.
If pulled from your car, cooperate. Move away quickly and do not resist.
If someone approaches for directions, talk to them only with the windows up and doors locked.
If a gunman demands your car, give it up. Your car is not more important than your life.
Try not to go with the attacker. Get out and get away.
Call the police immediately.
Remember
Anyone can be a victim; the best defense is constant vigilance.
Keep your car locked and secure at all times.
Every situation is different; only you can make a decision as to what action to take. Remember, your safety is the most important consideration.
McGruff The Crime Dog and TAKE A BITE OUT OF CRIME are registered trademarks of the National Crime Prevention Council.
The Ruston Police Department Web Pages were
created and maintained by Captain Jim Hilton.
No part of these pages may be copied or otherwise reproduced in any manner without permission.