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The University of Tennessee

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Frequently Used Tools:




SAFETY AROUND THE VEHICLE

  • Always park in lighted areas.
  • Always lock your vehicle.
  • Don't go alone. Not always possible, but it's still good advice.
  • Carry small loads at a time, keeping arms free for movement.
  • Carry your keys at the ready.
  • As you approach your vehicle, OBSERVE IT. Look around the vehicle. Look into the front and back seats before unlocking the door.
  • As soon as you are safely in your vehicle, lock the door.
  • Never hitchhike, and never pick up a hitchhiker.
  • Keep vehicle in good repair.
  • Never let your gas gauge get below one quarter of a tank.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Walk with confidence. When the criminal picks out a victim, in most cases he looks for three thing:
    1. A person who appears to be weak/vulnerable
    2. A person who is unaware of surroundings, not paying attention
    3. Opportunity
Crime is a part of society we live in. We are all potential victims. If we give the would-be criminal numbers 1 and 2, he will find number 3. Personal awareness is truly the key to prevention.

OTHER SUGGESTIONS

  • Record the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), registration and license plate numbers and keep them in a safe place. Also, attach a photograph of your vehicle.
  • Carry insurance.
  • Never leave keys in unattended vehicle.
  • LOCK IT. When you're in it and when you leave it. Always.
  • Keep valuables out of sight, locked in trunk.
  • Carry a spare key on your person. Stay away from using magnetic key boxes.
  • Avoid bumper stickers that might antagonize individuals or groups.
  • Avoid antagonizing other drivers.
  • Travel on main streets and highways as much as possible.
  • If you feel you're being followed, drive to the nearest police station or populated area and sound the horn for help.
  • If you see a disabled vehicle, don't stop. Drive to a nearby telephone and inform the police of the vehicle's location.
  • If your vehicle becomes disabled, attach a white handkerchief to the door handle or window, lock your doors and stay in the vehicle. If someone stops to help, do not open your door or window. Ask the person to please go to a telephone and call for help.
 

ITEMS TO CARRY IN YOUR VEHICLE

  • 4-way lug wrench with leverage pipe, and tire iron or screwdriver to remove hubcap.
  • A good jack, preferably hydraulic, and the knowledge to use it.
  • Aerosol canister for inflating tires (such as Fix-a-flat).
  • A change of clothing, warm jacket, gloves.
  • Cellular phone or CB (Citizens Band) radio.
  • Good spare tire, to be checked regularly.
  • Dependable flashlight.
  • Road flares.
  • Jumper cables.
  • Blanket.
  • Map/Atlas.