Security: Driving Abroad

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"Protecting yourself from security threats while driving abroad".

Driving in a vehicle can give you an inflated sense of security. The reality is that you may face threats, particularly when you drive an unfamiliar car in an unknown location with unfamiliar rules of the road. Do not be complacent; you may be vulnerable to attack by those who want you, your vehicle, and/or your belongings.

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Selecting a Car

When you rent a car, choose one that is in good repair, is a type commonly available locally, and not ostentatious in style or color. You want to blend in.

Utilize a portable global positioning system with police, hospital, hotel and route waypoints in a pre-programmed flight plan along your intended routing.

Sport utility vehicles (SUVs or 4X4 vehicles) and luxury cars are prime targets of car thieves and carjackers.

If available, select a car with: an alarm system, preferably one with a "panic" feature; and a steering wheel or brake locking bar or similar device; lockable gas cap, spare tire and engine compartment; air conditioning; universal door locks and power windows; a spare tire in good condition; both right and left side rear-view mirrors; and emergency gear such as a flashlight, flares, fire extinguisher and first aid kit.

Ask that any rental car markings be removed. Unfortunately, some countries issue license plates that identify the car as a rental. Be advised.

In the Car

Carry the registration documents with you. Never leave them in the vehicle.

Carry a 3 x 5 card with useful motorist assistance phrases written by a local.

Lock all doors and keep windows rolled up all of the time, even when stopped or parked. Thieves can snatch purses through open windows of slowly moving or stopped cars. Keep your valuables and any packages on the floor or in the trunk, but never in sight on the seat or dashboard.

Never let anyone place a package inside the car or enter it unless you are present.

On trips to isolated areas, keep extra water and oil in the trunk. Fuel should only be stored in approved metal/plastic containers.

If possible, keep a communications device, such as a two-way radio or cellular phone, in your car, turned on at all times.

While Driving

Avoid driving at night or during inclement weather, and never drive alone.

Before leaving, let someone know your itinerary and your expected time of return.

As you approach your car, scan the surrounding area for anyone loitering. Look under the car. Before opening the door, glance in the back seat.

Consistently vary your routes from your lodgings to repeat destinations.

Always drive with at least half a tank of fuel.

On streets with more than one lane, try to drive in the lane away from the curb.

If you see any indication that a street you are on has a work zone or other possible congestion ahead, try to avoid it.

Be wary of anyone who hails you on the road or tries to get your attention when you are in or near your car. Never pick up hitchhikers.

Avoid being boxed in by other cars while moving and at traffic lights/robots.

When coming to a stop, make sure you leave enough room to pull around the car in front of you in case someone attempts to enter your vehicle. When you stop, leave your car in gear (if it is a stick shift) so that you can start off quickly if needed. Be prepared to drive onto the sidewalk or over a curb to get away quickly.

If you have a flat tire, drive on it to a safe location to change it.

If you are threatened at or approaching a red light, drive through it carefully.

Trips to isolated areas can be dangerous. If possible, travel in a convoy of two or more cars. Carry extra water, fuel and a second set of keys.

Carjackers and Thieves

Carjackers and thieves operate in city traffic, at gas stations, parking lots, along the highway, and at roadblocks and checkpoints.

They may masquerade as good Samaritans.

For instance, entering/ exiting Barcelona, Spain from the north/south gangs of thieves on unregistered Vespas will pull next to your rear wheels at a traffic light then puncture the sidewall of your tire with a pen knife. The next light they will alert you kindly that you have a flat tire and proceed to rob you while you exit the car to inspect the tire.

They may work in groups, with one person creating a diversion while the others rob you or steal your vehicle.

They may drive you off the road, or create a staged accident.
In some countries, they may be dressed in police or military uniforms.

If they are armed, follow their instructions and keep your hands in full view. Try to avoid eye contact.

Attempt an escape only if the carjackers are not armed, and you are positive you can make a safe getaway.

Be particularly vigilant when stopped in traffic. Thieves can smash car windows, grab valuables and escape quickly.

At the End of Your Trip

If there is two-way traffic where you intend to park, make your turns so that you can drive directly to the spot. Do not come to a full stop in traffic in order to turn.

A lit, locked and manned garage is the most secure place to park a car. Carports and driveways within fenced or guarded areas are more secure than street parking.

If there are no secure parking areas, select a well-lit and non-isolated spot as close to your lodging as possible and away from sound and vision masking features such as trucks or buses, dense shrubbery or small buildings that might conceal thieves.

Do not get out of your car if you feel uncomfortable; if there are suspicious looking individuals nearby; continue driving to a safer area.

Always lock the car and do not leave valuables behind.

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