Self Defense in San Antonio

    Getting gas can be a big drain on your bank account these days, and if you’re not careful it can cost you much more than just the price of fuel.  Over the past few years, “Slider Crimes” have rapidly increased. A slider crime is the theft of property from your car while you are distracted.  In some metroplexes, as many as 78% of gas stations have reported this type of crime.  

The Target

Slider thieves look for people driving alone, often women at gas stations, in parking lots or anywhere a driver may temporarily exit their vehicle.  They want purses, cell phones, wallets, electronics, or anything of value that can be resold or pawned easily.  They may even steal the vehicle itself, leaving you stranded.

The Method

Sliders are very fast and efficient, and typically work in teams, using a trail vehicle that pulls beside the target vehicle.  They wait until you are distracted at the pump, then the passenger gets out and opens your door (or reaches through an open window) and “slides” your belongings into their car. Often, before you even notice what has happened, they are back in the trail car and driving away.  It’s not as common, but if the keys are left in the ignition while the driver is pumping gas, they take the vehicle itself, including everything and everyone inside it. Sliders may create a diversion by engaging you in conversation or asking if you dropped something, while their partner takes your belongings from the car.

The Defense

Don’t be a SOFT TARGET – always be aware of your surroundings. Don’t turn your back to your vehicle while pumping gas. A vehicle circling the gas station or pulling up and not getting gas could be sliders looking for victims. Be especially alert if strangers approach you at gas stations or parking lots.

Lock your Doors – Your vehicle doors should be locked, with windows up, 99% of the time! Only unlock them when you are entering or exiting, and make sure you know what’s going on around you before you do either.

Know your System – Understand how your specific vehicle’s locking system works. If you have a key fob, know it’s range and functions. Can a stranger open your doors while you pump gas? When you hit unlock, do all the doors unlock at the same time? Can you access the trunk or back hatch without unlocking the passenger and driver doors? More “Lock and Load” tips here.

Keep your Keys – Always take your keys with you. If you have children in the back, make sure the doors are locked and you are at your vehicle at all times.

Minimize Temptations – Leave valuables out of sight.  Hide them or lock them in the console or glove box.

Crime is Quick! In the few moments it takes to return your shopping cart, a slider criminal can be in, out, and away with your property.  Don’t leave the door open to these thieves.