The SAS Survival Driver’s Handbook

• Steering lock should be engaged.

• All doors and windows must be secured (except in the event that an animal has been left in the car, in which case the windows should be left ajar — see Safety)

• All alarm/immobilizer systems and anti-theft devices should be set before leaving the car.

• Retract the aerial and tuck in spring-loaded wing mirrors.

PARKING DOs AND DON’TS (#ulink_aa4ab952-7567-588f-beed-9a0502017de5)

Put some thought into where you park — follow these guidelines to stay safe:

Do look for an authorized car park that is well lit, supervised either by attendants or closed-circuit television cameras, with restricted entry and exit points.

Do make sure the car park will be open when you plan to return.

Do park as close as you can to the pay booth, to a CCTV camera or to a ramp where there are more likely to be other drivers. Try to park at ground level if you expect to be returning to your car late or when the car park is not busy — the top and bottom floors tend to be deserted outside peak hours. Avoid parking near pillars or large objects which someone could hide behind.

Always park near an exit to minimize the amount of time you spend walking around in the car park. Before leaving the safety of your locked car, take a look around. Don’t take risks — stay inside the car until you are certain it is safe to leave.

Do reverse into the parking space — that way you can make a quick getaway should the need arise.

Do leave plenty of room between cars so you don’t get scratched by a carelessly managed door (be careful as you open your own doors), and so that it won’t be easy for an assailant to trap you.

Don’t park next to a beaten-up looking car covered in dents and scratches. This may indicate the driver’s lack of concern for not only their vehicle but yours also.

It’s a good idea to note the number of the car next to you. That way, if you come back and find your car has been damaged you’ll have some hope of tracking down a witness, or even the culprit.

Be suspicious of anyone loitering nearby who seems to be paying close attention to your movements, they may be planning to steal the car or mug you.

Make a note of where you have parked the vehicle. Write down the level, bay, and exact spot.

Engage the steering lock, activate any security devices and secure all doors and windows. Have your belongings ready before you unlock the door and step out of the car. You’re at your most vulnerable while you’re leaning into an open doorway, intent on picking up items from the seat or dashboard. Someone can sneak up behind, give you a hefty shove which sends you sprawling into the seat, and steal your bag or briefcase.