Being hijacked can be a terrifying experience. Sadly, it is a reality that many South Africans face. While you can never fully prepare for what might happen in this emergency, there are steps you can take to give yourself a chance to survive this ordeal unscathed.

Take the necessary precautions before you find yourself vulnerable. Make sure you put in place steps to avoid a hijacking situation. Always remain vigilant of your surroundings when driving or parking, especially at home or in an area where escape routes are limited. Leave space between your car and other vehicles in traffic, and at stop streets so that you can maneuver out of the way if need be. Never park in the driveway while waiting for your gate to open. If you feel as someone is following you, drive to the nearest police station. Do not stop and investigate suspicious activity or fall for common hijacking tricks like an individual pointing to your wheels as if something is wrong, forcing you to stop.

Have you been left stranded on the side of the road?

A rapid response App like SECURE 911 is one of the best options you have of removing yourself from potential danger. SECURE 911’s Panic SOS feature instantly connects you to our 24/7 control room at the touch of a button. The competent staff will assess your emergency and respond appropriately. Armed response and roadside assistance services will be on their way within minutes.

THREE LIFE-SAVING TIPS IF YOU ARE HIJACKED

1. DON’T MAKE EYE CONTACT BUT PAY ATTENTION

It’s best to remain calm in front of the hijackers. Do not make any sudden, aggressive moves. Refrain from making direct eye contact as that could appear threatening. Keep your eyes down and your hands in sight but be sure to pay attention to as many details about the hijackers as possible. Be attentive to their language, race, height, clothing, and vehicle details. These facts can help narrow down a police search.

2. DO NOT BE MOVED TO A NEW LOCATION

In most hijacking cases, criminals are more interested in your car than they are in you. Always get out of the vehicle as quickly as possible. Ensure that you evacuate your children first. Let the hijackers know what you are doing at all times. Wherever possible, prevent the hijackers from taking any family member with them. The same rule applies to you. Allow the hijackers to take your vehicle and valuables.

3. MAKE EMERGENCY CONTACT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE

Your vehicle is not worth your life. Once the hijackers have left the scene, make immediate contact with emergency services and the police. Time is of the essence. Use the SECURE 911 App on your smartphone for rapid response. It is vital to notify your community about the incident and create awareness. Make use of the free Overwatch feature to get the message out. Increased awareness equates to increased security.

Simple to download and easy to use. SECURE 911, designed to help keep you and your family safe in high-risk situations. Tracking and monitoring your loved ones in real-time or connecting with your community has never been easier. SECURE 911 will increase your sense of security and peace of mind. Download the App today, create a safer environment for your community.