How to avoid a Hijack Situation | Western Cape Government

How to avoid a Hijack Situation

2005
Take Precautions:
  • Be familiar with your environment.
  • Get to know who belongs in the vicinity of your home or workplace, and who does not.
  • Keep your eyes open for anything out of the ordinary.
  • Lock all doors and close windows before driving off.
  • Try to vary your route to work, the gym – all places you travel to regularly.
  • Hijackers are professionals too; they plan their attacks carefully.
  • Ensure all your mirrors are adjusted to give you an optimal all-round view of your surroundings.
  • Try to stop about 5m behind the car in front of you at a stop sign or traffic light – it makes for an easy getaway if trouble arises.

Don’t Be Fooled By:

  • False appeals for help.
  • “Accidents” such as having you car rammed from behind.
  • Someone trying to get help from a stationary car.
  • Your electric gates being jammed

Know Your Environment :

  • If approached by a stranger while in your car, drive off if possible and/or use your hooter to attract attention.


  • Be constantly on the lookout for suspicious looking characters or vehicles and do not hesitate to report them to the Police.


  • Always be on the alert for potential danger, and be on the lookout for possible escape routes and safe refuge along the way.


  • If your suspicions are aroused by any person or vehicle in a high-risk area, treat it as hostile and take appropriate action (i.e. Ignore a red robot if it is safe to drive through; turn off and speed away from the perceived danger zone) and call for assistance where necessary.


  • Always have your identity document and driver’s license on your person; and a pen and notepad ready to make necessary notes.


  • If possible, avoid driving in the dark. Hijackers may stage a minor accident; e.g. If your car is bumped from behind and you do not feel comfortable with the individual/s involved in the situation, drive to the nearest Police Station for help.


  • Never open your vehicle window or door for any stranger. If a suspicious person is near your unoccupied car, do not approach the vehicle. Keep walking to the nearest public area and ask for assistance.
The content on this page was last updated on 9 September 2013