Carjacking is a crime in which a car is stolen from the driver through the use of force, threats, or intimidation while the owner is in the vehicle. This situation can quickly escalate and become dangerous, making it important for individuals to know what to do if they fall victim to a carjacking. Sergeant Diogo Mello of the East Providence Police Department offered safety tips on how to handle a carjacking situation and preventative measures that can be taken to protect oneself. It is crucial to remain calm if being carjacked and avoid being combative towards the criminal. Cooperating and separating oneself from the carjacker is essential for safety. Gathering information about the suspect, such as physical features, can help law enforcement later on.
One of the best ways to protect oneself from becoming a victim of carjacking is to always be aware of one’s surroundings. Staying vigilant and avoiding distractions, such as cell phones, can help individuals remain alert and less susceptible to becoming targets for criminals. Tips offered by Sergeant Mello include always being aware of surroundings, keeping windows up and doors locked, not driving alone whenever possible, leaving enough room to maneuver around other cars when coming to a stop, and parking in well-lit areas closest to business entrances, especially in potentially risky locations such as parking garages, convenience stores, or gas stations. Using tracking or GPS software in vehicles can also provide added safety measures.
There are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of carjacking occurrences. Places such as shopping plazas, garages, convenience stores, and gas stations are common locations where carjackings tend to happen. Parking in well-lit areas near business entrances can deter criminals, as they are less likely to act when witnesses are present. Additionally, the time of day can also be a risk factor, with most carjackings occurring during late-night to early morning hours. Neglecting to lock a vehicle, leaving it running while stopped at a location, and the make, model, and value of the vehicle can all contribute to a driver being more vulnerable to carjacking incidents.
In the event of a carjacking, it is important to remain calm and cooperate with the carjacker to ensure personal safety. Resisting or being combative towards the criminal can escalate the situation and put the victim in danger. Gathering information about the suspect, such as physical characteristics and tattoos, can aid law enforcement in identifying the individual later on. Taking preventative measures, such as being aware of surroundings, avoiding distractions, and using tracking software in vehicles, can help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of carjacking. Parking in well-lit areas near business entrances and being mindful of the time of day and location can also decrease the likelihood of carjacking occurrences.
Overall, being prepared and aware of one’s surroundings is crucial in preventing carjacking incidents. Following safety tips provided by law enforcement, such as keeping windows up and doors locked, not driving alone when possible, and using tracking software in vehicles, can help individuals protect themselves from becoming victims of this crime. By understanding common risk factors and taking preventative measures, individuals can reduce the chances of being targeted for carjacking and improve their overall safety while on the road.
