Information for Travelers

Automobile Security

Before getting into your vehicle – 

Take a few seconds to inspect your vehicle before getting into it.

Walk completely around your vehicle looking for:

1. Objects placed in the path of your tires or on top of your tires.
   
2. Fingerprints (if you car is dusty) around the doors, trunk or hood areas of the vehicles.
   
3. Wires protruding from the doors, hood, truck or gasoline cap.
   
4. Pieces of cut wire or electrical tape lying on the ground beneath or near your vehicle.
   
5. Signs of forced entry. 

Look into the back seat to ensure that the car is empty 

Make sure your vehicle is well serviced and dependable! 

Driving your vehicle – 

1. Keep your doors locked, windows rolled up and seatbelt on at all times!
   
2. Vary your routes to and from work and vary your departure and arrival times frequently by at least 20-30 minutes.  Be systematically unsystematic! 
   
3. Avoid parking in unsecured areas and places that will be unlit at night.
   
4. Be aware of your surroundings, know who is pulling along side of you.  You should also be watching what is taking place at least three blocks ahead of you. 
   
5. While you're driving, be prepared to take evasive actions.  Play the "what if game" and think of what evasive action you would take if the persons in the car next to you initiated an attack.
   
6. Remember that your vehicle is a 2,000-pound weapon and can be used very effectively against attackers –  be prepared to take action!  
   
7. Be alert for motorcycles or bicycles stopping next to your car, particularly if there are two riders.