Berkeley County South Carolina Sheriff's Office
January 14, 2020 - By :

In Your Car

Categories: Personal Safety, Protecting Against Sexual Assault
  • Always check the back seat of your car before entering
  • Keep your doors locked and windows rolled up at all times
  • Always park in a well-lit busy location
  • If someone tries to force their way into your car, blow the horn
  • Keep your car properly maintained
  • If you think you are being followed by another car do not go home, drive to the nearest police or fire station, open gas station, or other well-lit place, do not get out of your car, rather, use your horn to summons help
  • Be sure your house, garage and driveway are well lit
  • When you reach home, leave your car lights on until you open the garage and have your house key ready before you get out of the car
  • Leave your car in gear when you have to stop at intersections
  • When you go out, be sure to let someone know your destination, route and expected time of return
  • Use busy, well-lit streets when possible
  • Be sure you have enough gas to get to your location
  • If you wish to help a stranded motorist, do not stop, go to the nearest telephone and call for help
  • If you park your vehicle during the day and return at night, park near the street and building lights when possible
  • Stay alert and attuned to things going on around you, do not leave your car if you observe any suspicious persons in the area
  • Have your car key ready before you approach the car so you do not make yourself vulnerable while searching for the right key
  • When parking in a valet lot, leave only your ignition key
  • o If your car breaks-down in an isolated area, turn on the emergency blinkers, raise your hood, get back in your car as quickly as possible, lock your doors and keep the windows rolled up. If someone stops, ask that they send help, do not get out of your vehicle or accept rides from anyone other than properly identified repair and delivery personnel.
  • Never open your door to anyone you do not know. Always verify by telephone that these persons work for the company they say they represent and have been sent for the reason stated.
  • o Most service company employees carry identification cards. Examine the identification carefully. If such a person does not have an ID, get their name and call the company they claim to represent before letting them in.