Don’t be a victim: 11 anti-hijacking tips

With hijackings on the increase at the moment in the highway area, the Kloof Community Police Forum has the following tips to help prevent you becoming the next victim:

1. If your car is parked, approach it confidently and fully alert – do not be talking on your phone or distracted in some other way.

2. Do not unlock the car until you are nearby, and have your keys ready.

3. Keep your car serviced and in good running order to avoid breaking down.

4. Know where you are going, how to get there and try to ensure someone knows where you are going and when you expect to reach your destination.

5. If you suspect that you are being followed, go to the nearest police station or a safe, public place.

6. Keep doors locked, windows closed and valuables hidden at all times.

7. Focus on your surrounds at all times – do not succumb to the temptation of cell phones.

8. Ensure that your driveway is well lit and not overgrown, with no hiding places for criminals to lie in wait.

9. Park in well -lit areas where there are lots of vehicles and security personnel evident.

10.Wherever possible, change your route and time tables so that you do not become observed as a creature of habit.

11. Always try to park so that you can drive forwards out of a parking – it is much easier to hijack a car when the driver is reversing and has to stop to drive forwards.