Top safety tips to avoid a hijacking
Here are a few golden rules to take into consideration while on the road.
Be safe and vigilant over the next few month and report any suspicious behaviour to your local SAPS and security service provider.
BEFORE LEAVING YOUR LOCATION:
1. Get off your phone while approcahing your vehicle.
2. Take a stroll around your vehicle to confirm that there is no one lurking.
3. If your child will be driving with you, let them sit behind the driver of the vehicle.
4. Ensure your number plates are both on the vehicle and no papers are stuck to the rear or front windows of your vehicle.
5. Place all valuable items out of sight either under the seat or in the boot of your vehicle. Smash and grabs are also on the increase.
6. Ensure your windows and doors are closed and locked before leaving.
7. Plan your route before departure.
WHILE DRIVING:
1. Remain off your phone. Put your phone on silent and out of reach while driving.
2. Be vigilant at all times and report any suspicious behaviour to the SAPS and your local security service provider.
3. If your windscreen or tyre is damaged while driving, drive to a well lit area before stopping to inspect the damage.
4. Do not stop for anyone who might indicate they are in need of help in deserted or high risk areas.
5. Take a different route daily when leaving home or returning home.
6. Though there is a misconception that only certain makes and models are being stolen or hijacked, if there is a need for a certain make or model vehicle in the vehicle crime market will any vehicle become a target.
7. Lower your music, eliminating distractions and be extra vigilant 1km from your destination, ensuring that you are not being followed.
8. Park parallel to your home opening the gate prior to pulling into the driveway. Parking in your driveway while opening your gate might get you boxed in.
IN A HIJACKING:
1. At no given time resist the attacker or suspects.
2. Keep your hands visible at all times as the suspects are as nervous as you are.
3. Be submissive and listen to the instructions.
4. Do not resist once you have exited the vehicle.
5. Place your child that is in a baby seat behind you to remove the child with ease. Indicate to the suspect that you have a child in the backseat and remove the child by shielding him/her as much as possible.
6. Remain calm and try to identify any useful information about the hijackers without staring at them.
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7. Create time and space as quickly as possible between yourself and the threat.
8. Take note of the Language the suspects speak
9. Count the number of voices.
10. Listen to the information the suspects share amongst themselves and possibly via cellphone.
11. Estimate the height of the suspects by comparing it to your own height.
12. Identify any clothing, markings and shoes of the suspects. Some suspects change their clothes but not their shoes.
Courtesy Ryno R. Schutte of Pro-Active South Africa
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