• Before getting into your car, pay attention to your surroundings and be alert to nearby activity


• Always approach your car with your keys in hand


• Always check the back seat before opening your car door


• Make sure doors you left locked are still locked when you return


• If someone is loitering near your car, don't approach it


• Once you're in your car, keep your doors and windows locked


• Carry a cellular phone and know your emergency numbers - Non emergency (703) 385-7924, Emergencies 911 and #77 for Virginia State Police


• Avoid high-crime areas, especially after dark


• Be wary of people who approach your vehicle to ask for directions or change, or to hand out flyers


• When stopped in traffic, leave enough distance from the car in front of you to pull away quickly if necessary


• Stop only at ATM's that are well-lighted and visible from the street - pull as close as possible, then check your mirrors and look outside before opening your window


• If an armed carjacker confronts you, don't resist - get out of your car quickly; it's better to lose your car than your life.

Labels: Protect Your Car