Staying Safe at the Gas Station
Earlier this year in southwest Houston, two men killed a woman while she waited in the car at a gas station. Her family members had gone inside the store while she waited with the car. The would-be carjackers approached the car, opened the doors and then shot and killed her. They then took off on bicycles. This tragic story reflects the dangers that can be in place when you are refueling.
Criminals may attempt to steal the car itself or your belongings from the car. They count on your being distracted or having a false sense of security. A busy gas station doesn’t deter them – these crimes are often occurring in plain view of witnesses.
Safety at the Pump
Here are some tips for keeping yourself safe from these attacks while pumping gas.
- Lock the car doors. Grab just your credit card and keys and then lock the car doors. Leave your purse inside (and out of view). Thieves have been known to sneak up on the other side of your car, open the door, grab your purse or phone and take off.
- Don’t leave the car unattended. While it is very tempting to go inside for a drink or snack while the gas is pumping, this can make you a target. Someone might smash and grab from your car or may even attempt to steal the car while you aren’t looking.
- Be aware. Be watchful. Look at who is around you. Does anyone seem out of place? Are they all with vehicles and pumping gas? Be suspicious of anyone loitering.
- Steer clear of stations near a freeway ramp. Criminals get away too easily in this situation. Whether they rob you or steal the car, they can quickly jump on the freeway and be gone before you even dial 911.
- Bring a friend. Try not to go to the gas station alone or with just you and children. There have been many stories of cars being stolen with children strapped in car seats in the back seat. If you are with your kids, stand next to the open back door (with other doors locked) or open the window and talk to them while you are pumping.
- Stay off your phone. It is dangerous to be on your phone around gas pumps anyway. They can cause a tiny spark that could result in a fire. But being on the phone is also a distraction and could allow someone to come up on you without your noticing.
- Fill up before you reach empty. Give yourself the luxury of being able to find a safe gas station and to get gas during daylight hours. Never let the tank get below 1/4 full so you aren’t desperate to get gas and have to choose a less than optimal setting.
Other Dangers
Another scenario common at gas stations is the distressed stranger hoax. People tell you their down-on-their-luck stories about being stranded without gas to get home or being robbed and having no phone or money. They may ask for money or even a ride. These sad stories may be hard to resist. If you want to help, offer to pump gas directly into their car or to buy them food or a drink. Offer to call someone for them or even pay for a ride sharing service. Never let a stranger in your car. These criminals know to use someone who seems vulnerable to try to lure you in. It is hard to say no, but the risk is too high to do anything else.
