A smash and grab is usually characterized by the criminal smashing through a vehicle window while the car is stationary at traffic lights or stuck in slow moving traffic and grabbing something of value (jackets, handbags, laptops, cellphones etc). It is always advisable to remain calm and do not show any signs of aggression or threaten or challenge the culprit. Items such as handbags and cellphones are replaceable, your life is not!
Here’s how you can prevent being a victim to this dangerous act of smash and grab.
1. Lock all your doors and close windows when you are driving. Be cautious of strangers at all cost.
2. Don’t place your valuables at eye level. They should be invisible to any person passing your vehicle. Valuables only attract thieves who may break your car window. Place them valuables in the boot or under your seat. Do not leave things lying on the dash or on car seats or floors.
3. Always avoid opening your windows or getting involved in discussions with street vendors or anyone handing out flyers.
4. Always stay alert when stationary in your vehicle. Look out for street intersections, stop signs or driveways, they are regarded as smash and grab ‘hot spots’ at any given time.
5. Be careful of people standing at intersections – they may look innocent but anything can happen and you might just find yourself in trouble.
6. Make sure not to get out to move an object in the road.
7. When you approach an intersection, leave a reasonable stopping distance between you and the car in front of you to allow yourself room to move and escape any dangerous situation.
8. Park your vehicle in high traffic areas that have great lighting. There should be many people who walk past if possible. Thieves get threatened by areas where there could be witnesses.
9. When approaching a red traffic light at night, it is better to slow down so that you only reach the robot when it turns green.
10. If you encounter obstacles such as rocks or tyres do not get out of your vehicle to remove them – immediately reverse and drive off in the opposite direction.
