Planning Your Escape
Abduction is a very dangerous situation that requires resolve and sound presence of mind to increase chances of survival. If you are someone who thinks these types of crime only happen to others…think again. Perpetrators of these despicable acts of violence often times know their victims. Information available from the web page hosted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation reveals that victims have disappeared at the hand of their spouses or other relatives and acquaintances. Sadly, even small children are victims of these cowardly acts.
An important point to understand about these crimes is that moments immediately following the attack are the most critical for survival. As time increases, the window of opportunity to affect your escape diminishes. The more time that transpires, the more time your captor has to carry out his or her intentions. If we consider that in a large number of abductions cases, victims are spirited away from the scene of the assault in some type of motor vehicle, then we are able to draw upon assumptions that provides a basis to begin our survival planning.
The first step involves becoming intimately familiar with the automobiles we operate routinely. Many newer model vehicles are equipped with interior trunk latches designed to permit opening from the inside. In some cases, a separate latch may lower the rear seat, thus assisting with escape through the passenger compartment. Many are plainly marked and visible while others are more discreet. Still others have manually operated interior lights, providing illumination to someone locked inside.
A separate vehicle safety feature that undoubtedly has prevented countless injuries, can work against you in an abduction scenario—child safety locks. When engaged, child safety locks prevent occupants in the rear seating area from opening the doors from the inside. These safety features should be disengaged only if small children are not occupants of the vehicle. One compromise that requires careful consideration is disengaging one lock—on the door opposite the child’s seating area—where only one child is a routine passenger.
Of course, these features are useless to someone unfamiliar with its presence and operation. To determine if your vehicle is so equipped, consult the vehicle owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer’s representative. In addition, these points require consideration with rental vehicles, as well. Rental agencies should be able to assist with a vehicle that incorporates these important personal safety features.
Remember, time is critical following an abduction. Your chances of survival improve dramatically through planning and rehearsal. You can start by learning about your vehicle, inside and out. You are welcome to contact DCI for additional information or planning assistance.
