This according to Clive Humphrey, the managing director of ADT central region who also warns community members to take extra precautions with their safety and security as the festive season approaches.
Humphrey said a woman visiting a premises in Surge Close, Parkmore, pulled up into the driveway and stopped to wait for the gate to open when a second vehicle parked behind her and boxed her in. “Two suspects jumped out and ordered her out of her car at gunpoint,” explained Humphrey.
The suspects then saw the Parkmore ADT patrol vehicle in the distance. “They decided it was more wise to get into their own car and speed off,” said Humphrey.
Humphrey offers the following tips to prevent driveway hijackings:
• If you need to stop in your driveway to manually open the gate, always leave the key in the ignition and the motor running unless you have a child in the car. Only then should you take the key with you as you open the gate. The key is a valuable negotiating tool.
• If you have an electric gate, do not pull into your driveway before opening the gate. This can allow hijackers to box you in. Rather open your gate while your car is still in the road to allow a quick getaway if necessary.
• If you suspect you are being followed, put your indicator on and slow down at least two to three houses prior to your home. This should force the vehicle behind you to pass. Or, drive past your gate and contact your security provider or the Saps immediately.
• Research shows that most people relax the closer they get to home and this is often when they are most vulnerable. Turn your radio off, put your cellphone down, tell the kids to be quiet and concentrate on your surroundings as you approach your home.
• Check if your security service provider has a rendezvous service which you can contact. Generally this service ensures that an officer will meet you at your gate and escort you safely into your premises. You can use this service for visitors too.
• Keep checking behind you until the gate is completely closed before you get out of the car.
• Report anything suspicious to your security provider or the Saps immediately.
