January 30, 2006
East Lansing - The Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Division is recommending that Michigan motor carriers, particularly those carriers that transport and/or store hazardous materials, review their security plans and update drivers on security protocols in light of Super Bowl XL, which takes place at Ford Field in Detroit on February 5^th. While there is no information to lead law enforcement to believe a threat against commercial motor vehicles is imminent, a review of security protocols is encouraged.

Below are some basic tips and techniques that trucking company owners and operators can use to secure vehicles from potential misuse.

Security Awareness

A. At Terminals

a. Check for vehicle tampering.

b. Perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections.

c. Ensure locks and windows are operational.

d. Be aware of suspicious vehicles and/or people around terminal.

B. Highway Precautions

a. Be aware of any vehicles constantly following your vehicle.

b. Make sure passenger window is raised and door is locked.

c. Be alert of truck vulnerability while stopped at red lights or stop signs, or at railroad crossings and crosswalks.

d. If possible, stay on well-lighted streets/highways

C.  At Delivery Locations

a. Be alert to persons observing deliveries or making suspicious inquiries.

b. Make notes of suspicious vehicles observed at delivery locations.

c. Report suspicious vehicles to law enforcement agencies.

d. Report offers to purchase product to supervisor.

D. Other Security Precautions

a. Avoid taking breaks while truck is loaded.

b. Always check truck’s locks and windows and park in a well-lighted area.

c. Do not discuss product type or delivery operations with strangers. Report any suspicious contact to supervisor and local law enforcement.

d. Do not leave truck, whether loaded or not, unattended and unlocked in an area where you cannot observe it.

If You are Hijacked

• Do Not Panic.

• Do not attempt to resist hijacker.

• If equipped, activate silent alarm or duress system.

• Make mental notes: Physical descriptions, type of clothing, unusual speech characteristics, year and make of vehicle, time in transit and direction, speed and number of stops, unusual sounds (e.g., railroad crossings, highway traffic, foghorns, etc.). Try to remain aware of your surroundings.

• Notify law enforcement upon release.

Motor carriers should also review security plans specific to their physical locations and operations with all employees to ensure everyone knows what protective measures are to be taken and what to do in an emergency.

Read more news releases from the Michigan State Police.