Secure Car Travel

Travelling by Car

• The vehicle should be in excellent condition, and serviced by a reliable organization.

• If residing abroad, your vehicle should be of a model, make and colour which are amongst the most prevalent. License plates should be the same as those used by local citizens.

• In some areas it may be necessary to fit the vehicle with an anti-theft device.

• The petrol tank should be at least half full at all times and be fitted with a locking cap which is released from inside the vehicle.

• It is advisable to have two-way communication fitted or available in the vehicle.

• Senior executive vehicles should be registered in the name of the corporation rather than the individual executive.

• Names should not be placed on private parking areas.

• Park in areas where the car can be locked. If you have to leave the ignition key, separate it from others on your key ring.

• When parking in garages or underground structures, check the area carefully before getting out. Street kids and criminals often frequent these areas.

• Always park in well-lit streets or parking buildings at night if you are on personal or family outings.

• When travelling keep the doors locked. In crowded cities, slide open car windows are an invitation to a criminal. Only open the window 3 - 5 mm.

• Keep purses, packages and other valuables out of sight, in the boot or on the floor. Never leave valuables in the car. Company information should only be carried in the boot while travelling. It should never be left in the vehicle overnight.

• Keep emergency equipment such as first aid kit and fire extinguisher in the boot.

• If you have a breakdown, don't get out if another motorist stops to help; especially if you are female and in darkness or in secluded areas, roll down the window slightly and ask them to call police or a towing service.

• Be cautious about stopping to help people who appear to be having trouble. If you do stop, roll the window down only slightly, ask what the problem is, and tell them you will send help.

• Never pick up hitchhikers.

• Don't put you name on your car keys.

• Always look in the back seat before unlocking and getting into the car. If there is anything suspicious such as an unrecognised package, do not enter the vehicle or touch any suspicious objects. Call the police.

• If another car attempts to force your car towards the curb, do not stop or go into the curb, median or ditch just to avoid getting hit. Let the other vehicle hit your car if necessary. Honk the horn continuously to attract attention.

• Get the license number and vehicle description and report it to the police on your mobile phone, or drive to a safe place where you can call the police.

• Chauffeurs should be screened before hiring and be trained in evasive driving techniques.

• Chauffeurs should have a prearranged danger signal they can give executives before they enter the vehicle.

• Chauffeurs should not be given advanced notice of executives' destinations or schedules.

• Vary your time and routes to and from work. Follow well-travelled and well-lighted roads.