What to do in a hijacking
A local private security company has issued safety tips for residents of the Western Cape, following recent reports of a spike in hijackings in the province.
Car hijacking is reportedly at its highest level in 11 years in the Western Cape. The reported 82% increase in hijacking (since 2012) has also led to the creation of a police anti-hijacking unit, a move that has been welcomed by Community Safety MEC Dan Plato.
“Being aware of your surroundings and knowing how to respond if you find yourself in a hijacking situation is critical,” says Mr Jade Hanning, ADT Security’s District Manager (Cape Town South).
In the unfortunate event that you are hijacked, how do you give your car over in a non-threatening manner?
“The first and golden rule is to not antagonise the hijackers who are probably more scared than you are. You need to show them you are not a threat. Lift up your arms to show you have no weapon and will surrender. Use your left arm to undo your seatbelt and put your car in neutral,” says Hanning.
Do not turn off your car, he says, and get out slowly.
“Try and angle your body sideways so you are not facing a firearm head-on. Also remember to protect your head with your arms and avoid direct eye contact with the hijackers but try to take in what they are wearing, the sound of their voices, etc. Most importantly try to remain calm”.
ADT has partnered with the National Hijack Prevention Academy to offer drivers the following safety hints and tips:
• Always be particularly vigilant when you leave a shopping centre. Hijackers could have spotters working in the centre to alert of any big purchases or cash withdrawals.
• If you suspect you are being followed, put your indicator on and slow down at least two to three houses prior to your home. If you are being followed, you will force the vehicle behind you to pass and this could cause the criminals to lose interest.
• If you need to stop in your driveway to manually open the gate, always leave the key in the ignition and the motor running unless you have a child in the car. Only then should you take the key with you as you open the gate. The key is a valuable negotiating tool – they want your car and you want your child.
• Always make sure you can see the back wheels of the car in front of you when you stop in the traffic. This gives you enough room to maneuver and escape.
• Don’t fall for the “tap tap” trap where a driver taps the back of your car in traffic. They often use lady drivers as decoys here. Never get out of your car on the scene to assess the damage but rather drive to a busy location. Signal to the other driver to follow you. If it is not legitimate they will seldom follow you.
• If you stay in a secure complex with security guards, do not be fooled into thinking you are safe. You can easily be followed into your complex so always remain vigilant. Research shows that most people relax the closer they get to home and this is often when they are most vulnerable.