your passport to a safe trip abroad
during your stay in a foreign country
vehicle safety
- Avoid selecting cars that mark you as an "important foreigner." Rental
cars are easy to spot so do not choose a large, flashy vehicle.
- To
avoid marking yourself as a potential
target, rent a conservative automobile.
In Central America and Africa, one
of the hottest crimes is carjacking.
The carjackers frequently target upscale
sport utility vehicles and quite often
are very violent.
Avoid getting boxed in by other vehicles;
leave an avenue of escape open should
the need arise. If you have the opportunity,
don't be afraid to floor it and get
away quickly if your life seems threatened.
- Make
sure the car is in good repair and
always keep your gas tank at least
half full.
- Always drive with the doors locked
and the windows closed.
- Be
cautious of anything that causes you
to make an abnormal stop.
- Never
overload a vehicle. All persons should
use seatbelts.
- Whenever
possible park in areas that are locked
or attended.
- Never
pick up hitchhikers, and, if you observe
an accident, drive to the nearest
telephone or police station to report
it.
- Be
aware of minor incidents that could
block traffic along your route. If
you see a suspicious roadblock or
detour, take an alternate route.
- Inform
others of your travel plans, so they
will expect you at a certain time.
- Always
lock your car when unattended and
avoid leaving valuables in the car
even if locked in the glove compartment
or trunk.
- Inspect
your vehicle for tampering inside
and out. If you suspect a problem,
keep clear of the vehicle and contact
the authorities.
- Be
alert to possible surveillance. If
you suspect you are being followed,
go to the nearest secure public place.
