Don’t Be a Victim – Tips to Protect Against Carjackings

Chicago Police warned residents to be aware of any place that a drier must slow down or stop (traffic light or stop sign), as it could be a prime location for an attempted carjacking.

STAY ALERT

A carjacking can take place anywhere and at any time of the day, and they most often include assault and battery, plus robbery of personal belongings.  Be sure that you do everything you can to minimize the chance of becoming a carjacking victim, starting with safety and awareness.  Follow these safety guidelines:

PARK IN WELL LIT AREAS

Stay visible.  Avoid the dark recesses of a garage when possible, and when parking in shopping areas, stay away from the outskirts of the lot.  Instead, opt for spaces closer to the building’s doors and camera.  At home, install a security light with a video camera.

DON’T GET BOXED IN

Give yourself room to maneuver around suddenly stopped traffic and be aware of all identifiable exits.

CARRY YOUR PHONE BUT DON’T BE ENGROSSED BY IT

Condition white is when someone is oblivious to their surroundings.  Cell phones put us in that state.  Keep your phone in your pocket and connect hands free when possible.  By keeping your phone on your person (instead of a bag or purse) gives you the ability to call 911.

KEEP VALUABLES HIDDEN

Trust your instincts.  Keep money and jewelry out of sight.  If you feel they are unsafe, they probably are.

LOCATIONS

The most likely carjacking spots, based on 2020 crime statistics are residential driveways, ATMs, gas stations, parking lots, garages and anywhere a car slows or stops.  Urban areas have more carjackings while rural areas have more car thefts (with no one present).

When approaching your vehicle, you are vulnerable.  Therefore, you should have a heightened state of awareness (condition yellow).  If you see someone loitering around your vehicle, people in the car next to yours or anyone pointing out damage to your car, maintain your distance.  If you feel unsafe or concerned, go in a  building.

SCAMS

Bump and Run:  You are rear ended and as you get out to assess the damage, someone from the striking vehicle jumps in your car and both cars drive away.

Stranded Motorist:  Police agencies to not recommend stopping for stranded motorists.  Instead, call 911 to give the authorities their location.

Pothole Menaces:  A street (especially Chicago) may be filled with potholes or obstacles meant to slow down your vehicle so a team can carjack you.

Stay safe and be vigilant.