IN AND AROUND YOUR CAR
Keep the windows up and the doors locked when in your car. Always.
Invest in a cellular phone. Think of it like a spare tire you may not need it, but
it's there if you do. This is not a costly thing to do and whatever it costs it's worth it. It
can save your life!
Time your lights. Do not race to the next red light. If you do, you will spend
more time stopped waiting for the light to change. Instead, take your time. You are
more vulnerable when your vehicle is stopped than when it is moving. Keep it moving!
Pay attention to people and actions happening around you - especially when you
are stopped at a red light. This is when most people tend to relax and ignore their
surroundings.
Park your car in a well lit area as close to your destination as possible. Check your
surroundings before getting out of your car. If you feel uncomfortable, drive away.
When you do get out, keep your keys and pepper gas, or alarm, in your hand. If there
is trouble, you can respond, or get back into your car quickly.
Whether your car has been parked for an hour or a week - if you sense trouble,
get help. Ask to be escorted to your car by an employee, or security guard when you
leave a mall, supermarket, or airport, especially if you are overloaded with bags.
Have your pepper gas, or alarm, and your keys in hand when you approach
your car. Look under, around and in your vehicle before you unlock the door and
get in. Start looking when you are still 25 feet from your car.
When you need gas, at night, or if you are in an unfamiliar area, go to the
full service pump and keep the doors locked and the windows up. If you go to a self serve
pump, turn off the engine and lock the doors when you go into the station to pay
for gas, especially if children are in the car.If you leave the keys in the car, your kids
could be in for the ride of their lives.
Avoid marginal areas, places where you would not feel comfortable standing
on the corner. Select routes to your destinations with this in mind. Even if you're
running late for work, do not take shortcuts through unfamiliar territory.
Use your cellular phone to call for help if your car breaks down particularly in a
deserted or unfamiliar area. If you don't have one, put a 'HELP CALL POLICE!' sign
in the window. Do not leave the car! I don't want you accepting a ride with a stranger,
or walking down that highway alone.
Drive in the left lane. If you have to make a maneuver; you have the whole other
side of the street to work with. Leave at least half to three quarters of a car length
between your car and the one in front of you. If there's trouble, you can make your
move without having to back up first.
Beware of the 'bump!' If you are involved in an accident or your car is
bumped by another car; turn on your flashers and drive to a place where you feel
safe. If you can't move, and the driver approaches your car; roll down the window
a crack to speak and place your drivers license against the glass. Do not get out of
the car and do not give him your license. If you have a cellular phone, call the
emergency number [*911 in many areas].
Prevent the smash and grab. Keep your valuables out of sight, your purse tucked
under your knees, briefcase up under the dash. If the goof can't see it, he won't try
for it.
