CARJACKING
IFRC Stay Safe - Carjacking
Carjacking is a real risk is some high-crime and conflict areas where we work.
The aim is usually to steal your vehicle or belongings. In certain contexts, the aim can also be to take hostages or injure or kill. Find out if this is a risk in your area.
Carjackings most often happen:
at the entrance of your home or office
during traffic jams and at traffic lights
at fake roadblocks, accidents or breakdowns.
Tips on how to avoid and respond to a carjacking
MAKE A PLAN
Discuss how, when, and where carjackings occur in your area, and how should your team should react.
Assess the need to travel, and pick the safest route and time. Avoid predictable routines, and DO NOT travel at night. Consider driving in a convoy. Stay in regular radio contact.
Make sure everyone in the car stays alert.
Keep windows up and doors locked.
IF YOU ARE BEING FOLLOWED
Try to stay calm and don’t speed.
Change your route to see if they follow; avoid going down small side roads.
Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front.
Drive to a safe place that is not your home.
Call the police and your base.
IF YOU ARE BEING PULLED OVER
Assess the risk and decide whether to stop. If confronted with weapons, it is best to stop.
Do not make sudden movements, provoke or resist.
Keep your hands on the steering wheel.
Give them what they want. If you are in a remote area, try negotiating to keep your radio, phone and water.