Life today is full of challenges – from the rising cost of living to the constant demands of work. But no matter how busy we are, personal safety should always take priority, especially in situations where hesitation could have serious consequences.
One such situation is a plastic bottle stuck between the wheel and the chassis of your car. If you ever see this on your vehicle, be alert and act quickly. This is not a harmless prank – it could also be a sign of an attempted carjacking. In such a case, call 911 immediately.
What is a scam?
Criminals are getting more creative, and a disturbing trend is making headlines around the world. The method, which was originally reported in Limpopo, South Africa, has since been observed in other parts of the world, including the United States.
This is how the tactic works:
A thief targets a parked car and places an empty plastic bottle on one of its wheels – typically the front passenger tire.
The bottle is hidden from the driver, but as soon as the vehicle starts moving, a sizzling sound alerts the driver that something is wrong.
Naturally, the driver pulls over and gets out of the vehicle to investigate the sound.
Then the thief steps in.
What happens next?
There are two possible outcomes:
The car thief jumps into the moving vehicle and drives away.
The thief steals valuables left inside – such as wallets, phones or bags – while the driver is distracted.
In both cases, getting out of the car without knowing the situation puts the driver at serious risk.
What should you do?
To maintain safety:
Always check your vehicle, especially the wheels, before getting in.
Look for unusual objects, such as bottles or other objects trapped between the tires and frame.
If you see anything suspicious, do not approach your vehicle immediately.
Discreetly call 911 and report your location, provide a description of your car, and your concerns.
According to Michigan radio station WCRZ, a quick visual check may be enough to prevent becoming a victim.
Closing thoughts
This simple trick is designed to catch drivers by surprise. By staying alert and making it a habit to check your car before you leave, you can protect yourself and your valuables.
Stay alert. Take care of yourself.
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