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Top ten tips to protect yourself

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Keeping safe when driving

Before you start your journey

Before a long trip, make sure your vehicle is in good condition.

Plan how to get to your destination before leaving, and stay on main roads if you can.

Make sure you have enough money and petrol. Carry a spare petrol can.

Keep change and a phone card in case you need to make a telephone call. Carry a torch.

Before you leave, tell anyone you are planning to meet what time you think you will get there, and the route you are taking.

While on your journey

If someone tries to flag you down, drive on until you come to a service station, or somewhere busy, and call the police. Do not pick up hitch-hikers.

Keep doors locked when driving and keep any bag, car phone or valuables out of sight. If you have the window open, only wind it down a little. Don't wind it down far enough to allow someone to reach in while you are stopped in traffic.

If you think you are being followed, try to alert others by flashing your lights and sounding your horn. Make as much noise as possible. If you can, keep driving until you come to a busy place.

If you frequently have to travel after dark, or if your job involves visiting people at home, consider getting a mobile phone or ask your employer to provide one.

Keeping safe when parking

After dark, park in a well lit, busy place. Look around before you get out. If you're parking in daylight, but coming back for your car at night, think about how things will look in the dark.

Have your key ready when you go back to your car. Make sure there is no one in the car.

If you break down

If your car develops problems, find a telephone. On motorways follow the marker arrows to the closest phone. They are never placed any more than a mile apart, on opposite sides of the motorway. Never cross the carriageway to use a phone.

While on the hard shoulder of the motorway or telephoning, keep a sharp look out and don't accept lifts from strangers - wait for the police or breakdown service. Don't wait in the car - there is a high risk of an accident. Wait on the embankment nearby with the front passenger door open. If someone approaches you or you feel threatened, lock yourself in the car and speak to him through a small gap in the window.

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