When you are on the move, you are vulnerable to being kidnapped. Many people are taken in their cars, particularly if they use predictable routes and are easy to identify.
- Be as random as you possibly can with your route selection.
- Be very vigilant when you get close to your destination.
- Get an employee to drive out and meet you on the final approach to your office, if possible, as they can observe whether you are being followed and help with the most dangerous/predictable part of your journey.
- Drive a discreet, preferably armored car (level 3). This provides immediate protection and can be used as a weapon to escape an attempted abduction through evasive driving and ramming techniques.
- Use a driver who is familiar with the local area and trained in security techniques, if possible.
- Identify several safe havens and counter surveillance options, where you can observe if you are being followed, on routes that you use frequently.
- Be wary of vehicles that pull away with you and are still following you after several junctions and/ or deviations.
- Always be aware of where you are and make sure you can phone for assistance if necessary.
- Look from your house or office window for any parked cars with people sitting in them immediately before you leave in your car. Get a member of staff to check who is in the vehicle as this will intimidate a potential kidnapper.
- When you pick up/drop off children at school, look out for any strangers – especially if they are not picking up children themselves.
- Be very cautious when you are static in your car at night, or when you are in notoriously dangerous areas.
- Consider not stopping at traffic lights in dangerous areas at night, but only if it is safe to do so.
- Notice if you are being followed while walking or driving. Learn how to identify a pursuer, confirm you are being followed and evade them.
- Do not get distracted by anything in the street – for example, an attractive person approaching you.
- Be ready to drive off aggressively if someone approaches your car for any reason – especially if they approach from the side or rear.
- Never stop for any distraction such as a breakdown or accident as these are classic tactics used to stop a potential victim.