In an effort to keep citizens safe, Jackson Police Chief, James Davis, released safety and security tips for the community.
“We can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware. Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors.”
The tips include:
-If you are driving: avoid driving alone or at night.
-If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.
-Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car.
-Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
-Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.
-Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
-Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside (even at home).
-Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. (this creates a temptation for thieves). If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
-Locate your keys prior to going to your car.
-When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
-Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
-Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put then down or on top or the car in order to open the door.
The Jackson Police Department went on warn citizens about a tactic used by people to carjack residents called “bump and run”.
“The carjacker and an accomplice will intentionally bump their vehicle into the rear of the victim’s car. Thinking he or she has been involved in a fender bender, the victim will get out of his or her car to assess the damage and exchange insurance information. That’s when the carjacker will threaten the victim and steal his or her car. The carjacker zooms away in your vehicle, his accomplice drives away in his, and the victim is left stranded.
If you do get rear-ended, pull your car over into a well-lit and populated area. You want as many people as you can to see you. If there isn’t a good place to pull over, keep driving (with the flashers on, so if the person who bumped you is an average citizen, they know you will be stopping) until you find one. If you suspect the bumper is a car thief, call 911 and stay in your car with the doors locked and windows rolled up until the police arrive.”
The Jackson Police Department said if you see a crime being committed, call 9-1-1 and for any non-emergencies you can call 601-960-1234.
