A message from the Federation of Calgary Communities
- Before driving your car:
- Be sure your car is in good running condition by having regular maintenance.
- Have your door and ignition keys ready when you get close to your vehicle.
- Look behind the front seat before getting in to make sure no one is hidden on the floor waiting for you.
- Right after you get in, lock all the doors, and roll up the windows.
- Keep your valuables out of sight, not on the seat next to you.
- Try to always be aware of your exact location.
- Travel with a cell phone or coins for an emergency phone call.
- Never pick up hitchhikers.
- If your car breaks down in an isolated area:
- Raise the hood.
- Sit inside the car with the doors locked until help arrives.
- Leave the windows up while you talk to whoever comes near. It may be safer to stay in your car than to go with strangers to get help.
- If someone comes up to your car and you do not have a cell phone, ask them to phone the police or a tow truck, etc. and wait in your car.
- Remember that highways are frequently patrolled.
- If you think you are being followed by a person in another car:
- Do not go home.
- Drive to the nearest police station or open business. If you have a cell phone, call 911.
- Do not allow another car to force you to the side of the road.
- Use your horn to get attention and call for help.
- If possible, get the license number and write it down.
- When you arrive at your destination:
- Park in a well-lit spot as near as possible to your destination.
- Look around for people before leaving your car.
- If you must leave your key in the vehicle when parking in an attended lot, remove it from the key ring and take all other keys with you.
- Keep the registration and insurance information with you.
- Lock your car.