Preventing Hijackings 10 Tips for Truck Driver Safety - Without safety, nothing else matters! Truck Driving is a vital profession that despite the rudeness drivers encounter on the road, is the…
Preventing Hijackings
10 Tips for Truck Driver Safety – Without safety, nothing else matters!
Truck Driving is a vital profession that despite the rudeness drivers encounter on the road, is the cornerstone of our economy!
One of the most concerning threats we face is the possibility of not just illegal migrants, but terrorists sneaking into your truck or trailer. To help address this issue, I have compiled a few essential safety tips and practices for Truck Drivers to help prevent such incidents.
While researching other website articles I ran across a couple of Blog Post-1 that may be of interest to you – Blog Post-2. Perhaps 1 or 2 of these tips will help you when writing your own “Highjacking Prevention Plan”.
Tips for Your “Truck Driver Safety” Plan
1. Walk-a-Round: When conducting your pre-trip and “post fuel stop” walk-a-rounds, inspect your rig for possible stow-a-ways. Check the undercarriage of your trailer, behind your fairings, especially on top of your cab, and possible access under your tarps if you are an open deck trailer.
Also, if possible, check inside any cargo (such as vehicles, tractors, or crates, that could serve as a hiding area for hitchers), even a loader bucket or something similar could serve as a hiding spot.
2. Use of High-Quality Cameras, Seals, and Padlocks: When it comes to Truck Driver Safety, it is tough to have too many security cameras and lights on your tractor / trailer. Look into a “high end” infrared multi-cam system for 360 Degree monitoring.
Increase the use of high-quality seals and padlocks to secure cargo. This makes it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access the contents of the truck. You may consider a system that offers full time internet streaming to your dispatcher or family.
3. ‘No Stop’ Policy: Perhaps the #1 way to promote Truck Driver Safety is to Implement a ‘no stop’ policy for drivers, especially within two to three hours of the trip’s origin. This reduces the opportunity for hijackers or terrorists to access the vehicle during its most vulnerable moments.
4. Route Planning: Plan routes in advance, avoiding high crime areas, congested traffic, inclement weather, and restricted routes. Knowing alternative routes and designating predetermined checkpoints can also enhance safety.
5. Awareness of Surroundings & Avoid Distractions: Drivers should be constantly aware of their surroundings and watch for suspicious vehicles or activities. This includes being cautious when moving, look for vehicles following you, especially if there are 3 or more people in the vehicle.
It almost goes without saying that the most dangerous times for hijacking are when the vehicle is stopped, keep your doors locked and windows up when driving through metro areas. LOCK YOUR DOORS, when you exit your cab to fuel-up or grab a bite to eat. Check-in with your dispatcher or family member if anything looks out of place!
Keeping your dispatcher or family informed about your progress is a passive but important way to increase Truck Driver Safety.
6. Secure Parking: Park in secure areas with ample lighting. Avoid stopping at the same places every trip and only stop in designated rest areas where there are other trucks parked.
7. Communication with Dispatch: Inform the dispatcher of the route and follow it strictly. If there are any changes to the route, drivers should inform someone immediately.
8. Avoiding Distractions: Drivers should avoid distractions such as using cell phones while driving. Keeping focused on the road is crucial for safety. Be a hard target and do not make eye contact with strangers or engage in confrontations.
9. Emergency Preparedness: Carry a 24-hour emergency telephone number at all times. In case of any suspicious activity or emergency, drivers should be able to contact authorities or their company promptly.
10. Pay Attention to Your 6th Sense: Your 6th sense is REAL, If something doesn’t feel right, trust your intuition and act on it. You can significantly reduce the risk of terrorist infiltration or illegal aliens, and ensure your own safety as well as the security of your cargo. Remember, safety is always the top priority on the road.
QDS Summary:
Quality Dispatching Services has been in the freight business for over nine years, we have the experience to know what works and the pitfalls for Owner Operators.
We will keep you rolling with “Good Paying” Freight. Don’t settle for a cheap dispatcher who charges $50 per week and handles too many trucks. Remember the saying; If it sounds too good to be true…” You deserve better, don’t take a chance with subpar service and support!
We charge 5% of the load value for Class 8 rigs and 8% for Hot Shot rigs and Power Only. We respect owner operators and the challenges you face every day, and we don’t want to be one of them. If you would like to discuss having our company Dispatch your truck(s) call us at:(337) 393-0012
Remember:
Safety is paramount in our industry. Always prioritize safe practices and drive responsibly.
