By Garfield Heights Police Department – Ohio
Due to an increased number of vehicle thefts and carjackings, here are a few tips to consider to keep you and your family safe!
– Always keep your doors and windows locked.
– Do not leave your car running with keys in the ignition.
– When stopped in traffic, keep one car length between you and the car in front of you. This gives you room to maneuver and escape if necessary.
– Beware of individuals approaching your vehicle to ask for directions, hand out flyers, etc.
– Keep your purse, tablet, laptop, and other valuables in the trunk or out of sight.
– Always keep your phone with you. (However it is NOT a good idea to check texts, surf the web, or chit chat when first entering or before exiting your vehicle. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS!)
– Stay vigilant in public garages, parking lots and ramps, gas stations, drive-up ATMs, and stoplights.
– Pay attention to the “bump and rob” method. Carjackers often use this method to steal a car. They will bump their vehicle into another one; once the driver gets out to check the damage to their car, a passenger in the other vehicle will make their move. As the victim is distracted with assessing the damage, the passenger then enters the victim’s car and drives away.
– If you get in an accident, stay in your car and call the police.
– Most importantly, never try to reason with a carjacker; your safety is more important. Your life is valuable and you cannot be replaced, the vehicle can be.
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