Safety In Your Vehicle

Law enforcement officials suggest the following prevention tips

There are some common-sense rules that motorists should follow under certain conditions. Rely on your judgement and assessment of the situation to tell you what you should do.

• View the interior of your car before getting in to make sure no one is hiding inside, even if the doors are locked.
• Have keys in hand so you do not have to linger before entering your car.
• Remember to keep your vehicle locked at all times, whether you are moving or parked.
• Remove high value, portable items from your vehicle.
• Do not pick up hitchhikers.
• If you are driving at night, use well-lit streets and parking lots that are open, for easy observation.
• Do not expose yourself to unnecessary risk. Leave the parking area if you encounter suspicious circumstances and report it immediately to the manager or the police.
• Be cautious of any stranger approaching your vehicle. If you feel you are in danger, press the horn repeatedly in short blasts. This will attract attention.
• If you think you are being followed, pull into the nearest gas station or safe place. Do not drive home.
• Plan and know your route before you leave, whether it is for a short drive in the city or a long trip in the country.

If your vehicle breaks down in an isolated area…

• Pull your vehicle off the road so you will be out of the traffic.
• Turn on the emergency (four-way) flasher and raise the hood of your vehicle.
• Stay in your car with all the doors locked and windows rolled up.
• Wait for help to come to you—a patrolling police car or another motorist.
• Should a passing motorist stop, stay in your car and ask him/her to send help back to you. You must use your judgement in this situation.

—Adapted with permission
Seniors' Guidebook to Safety and Security,
Royal Canadian Mounted Police