Staying Safe when Driving:

• Before a 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.
• Carry a torch and mobile phone.
• Before you leave, tell anyone you are planning to meet what time you think you will get there, the route you are taking, and what time you expect to return, ensuring they have Active’s emergency number.
• Do not stop if flagged down or pick up hitchhikers.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 your car develops problems, find a phone. On motorways follow the marker arrows to the closest phone. Never cross the carriageway to use a phone.
• While on the hard shoulder or telephoning, keep a sharp lookout 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 or her through a small gap in the window.
• If you have to travel after dark, consider carrying a mobile phone and a torch.