Carjacking is a crime of opportunity -– a criminal searching for the most vulnerable potential victim. The most important thing to remember is that your car is replaceable, but you are not. Carjacking is a crime of violence that can be extremely scary. Knowing how to respond in a situation may mean the difference between serious injury or death and walking away unscathed.
TIPS TO LESSEN YOUR CHANCES OF BECOMING A VICTIM OF A CARJACKING:
* Whenever possible, call the MCSD phone, in advance, when on your way home or leaving your home, if you feel unsafe or vulnerable. Please be mindful that MCSD officers may be handling other matters when you attempt to contact them. Please be patient if/when this occurs.
* Do not remain inside of your car in your driveway or outside of your home, or at any other location, day or night.
* Always be aware of your surroundings and limit your distractions when walking to and from your home.
* Park in well-lit visible areas.
* Keep windows up and doors locked.
* Allow yourself room in traffic to move around other cars and avoid getting “boxed in.”
TIPS IF YOU FIND YOURSELF THE VICTIM OF A CARJACKING:
* Report the crime to the police immediately.
* If the carjacker threatens you with a gun or other weapon, GIVE UP YOUR CAR! Don’t argue.
* Get away from the area as quickly as possible.
* Equip your vehicle with anti-theft or GPS, for tracking.
* Keep your phone in your pocket, rather than in your car.
TIPS ON REDUCING YOUR RISK OF BECOMING A VICTIM WHEN YOU ARE ON THE ROAD:
* Always keep your doors locked and windows rolled up (if it’s hot and you don’t have air conditioning, roll them up at least part way) no matter how short the distance you’re traveling or how safe the neighborhood is.
* If available, and when possible, drive in the center lane to make it harder for potential carjackers to approach the car.
* Avoid driving alone. Travel with someone, whenever possible, especially at night.
* When you are coming to a stop, leave enough room to maneuver around other cars, especially if you sense trouble and need to get away.
* Always drive with the doors locked. If a thief can’t get in your vehicle, you stand a better chance of leaving with it.
* DON’T stop to assist a stranger whose car has broken down. You can help instead by calling the police for help.
* Park in well-lit areas, near sidewalks or walkways. Avoid parking near Dumpsters, large vans or trucks, woods, or anything else that limits your visibility.
* Never leave valuables out in plain view, even if the car is locked. Always put them in the trunk our out of sight.
* Try to park in a garage with an attendant. Leave only the ignition key, with no identification.
* Even if you’re rushed, look around before you get out and stay alert to your surroundings.
* Always trust your instincts. If the situation doesn’t “feel right,” get away.
