Hijack Prevention Tips

Hijackings seem to be on the increase again if one looks at the news  in the last couple of weeks. Although this is a very traumatic experience, it is good to know what you can do to try and prevent it. In the event that you are the victim of a hijacking, knowing how to behave can save your life.

• 68% of all hijackings occur close to your home so be especially vigilant when pulling out of your driveway
  
  or coming home.
• If you have an electric gate, do not pull into your driveway before opening the gate. This can allow hijackers trap you. Rather open your gate while your car is still in the road to allow a quick getaway if necessary.
• If you suspect you are being followed, put your indicator on and slow down at least two to three houses prior to your home. By doing this, you will force the vehicle behind you to pass and you can then get a better idea of their intentions.
• If you need to stop in your driveway to manually open the gate, always leave the key in the ignition and the motor running unless you have a child in the car. If your child is in the car, take the key with you as you open the gate. The key is a valuable negotiating tool - the criminals want your car and you want your child.
• Always make sure you can see the back wheels of the car in front of you when you stop in the traffic. This gives you enough room to maneuver and escape if you have to, for whatever reason.
• Don't fall for the bumper tap trap where a driver taps the back of your car in traffic. Female drivers are often used as decoys here. Don't get out of your car on the scene to assess the damage but rather drive to a busy location. Signal to the other driver to follow you. If it is not legitimate they will seldom follow you.

How to behave when you are hijacked.

• The golden rule is: Do not antagonise the hijackers. They must not see you as a threat.
• Lift up your arms to show you have no weapon and will surrender.
• Use your left arm to undo your seatbelt and put your car in neutral.
• Be cautious not to use your right arm to lean across your body and undo your seatbelt or unlock the door. This could be construed as you reaching for a gun.
• Do not turn the ignition off.
• Get out slowly and try and angle your body sideways so you are not facing a firearm head-on. Also remember to protect your head with your arms and to lift your shoulders to protect your neck area.
• Do not turn your back on the hijackers - your organs are most exposed from the back.

Avoid direct eye contact with the hijackers but still try to take in what they are wearing, the sound of their voices, etc.