Terrorists threats are real and here to stay. You play a vital role in protecting your family, friends, and countrymen. For more information on how to reduce your risk of hijacking, including information on what your company can do, see www.fmcsa.dot.gov/security .

Since September 11, 2001, your role as a truck driver has become more important. Now more than ever, America depends on you to move freight safely and securely, especially if you transport hazardous materials. While high valued commodities have always been hijacking targets, shipments capable of mass destruction or environmental damage must now be protected with the utmost care. We ' re counting on you.

One lesson from September 11th is never underestimate our enemies or the potential danger of any situation. If something doesn ' t seem right, call the police, the FBI, or your dispatcher and report it. In an emergency, don ' t wait, call 911 immediately.

ON THE ROAD

• Be alert when leaving. Criminal surveillance often begins at, or within a mile of, your origin.
• Don ' t discuss your cargo, destination, or other trip specifics on open channels or near people you don ' t know.
• If you believe you are being followed, call 911 and your dispatcher immediately.
• Avoid being boxed in. Where possible leave room in front and behind your truck.
• Look for vehicles following you, especially if there are 3 or more people in a car.
• If you believe you are being hijacked, try to keep your truck moving.

STOPPING

• Leave your truck in a secure parking lot or truck stop if possible; if not, be certain someone can watch your vehicle.
• If team driving, always leave one person with the truck.
• Never leave your vehicle running with the keys in it; shut off the engine and lock the doors.
• If at all possible, do not stop in " hot spots " - unsafe or high crime areas.
• Always lock the cargo door(s) with padlocks.
• Use seals to prevent and identify tampering.

YOUR VEHICLE

• Use an engine kill switch.
• Use tractor and trailer brake locking devices.
• Criminals know about electronic tracking systems and how to dismantle them; check your system regularly, and notify dispatch when it ' s not working.
• If you drop a trailer, use a fifth wheel lock whenever possible.

Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)

U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)