National Homeland Security Knowledgebase
Stay alert!
Be
aware of your surroundings at all times. And, be especially observant
of
any
suspicious
or unusual activity in terminal facilities or delivery areas. The same
also
applies to drivers working the ports and marine terminals.
Be
especially watchful immediately after picking up your load. Most armed
hijackings
happen within a few miles of the pickup point.
Be extra careful when hauling hazardous materials.
You
should have proper identification, shipping documents,
and
be prepared to be stopped by law enforcement officials.
Be more cautious about what you say and do not talk about cargo on the CB radio or at a truckstop.
If you have a regular run, whenever possible, vary your route and your stops.
Park
in areas where other truckers are present. keep an eye on your truck,
don't
leave
the
engine idling, unless you have to.
Be
alert for vehicles that might be following you, should the traffic stop
on the highway or on a
street,
make sure that you have room to drive around the vehicle in front of
you
so you can't be blocked in.
Keep in regular contact with your dispatcher. Let him/her know about anything suspicious or odd, such as someone following you.
Always lock tractor doors and make sure all trailer and container doors are secured with a heavy-duty padlock.
When possible, go directly to your delivery point without stopping.
Check
your trailer seal at every stop, and let dispatch know if it's been
tampered
with.
Use a fifth wheel lock when
possible if you drop a trailer.
Do not take your loaded truck home or park in an unsecured area such as a parking lot or mall.
Be
aware of vehicles following your truck and/or of strangers asking about
your cargo.
If you are being followed, call
your dispatcher or 911 immediately.
Be
suspicious of being asked to stop because of an alleged traffic
accident
or a breakdown. If unsure whether an accident
occurred,
drive to a police station or well-lighted, busy location before
stopping.
If
unsure whether an accident has occurred, drive to a police station or
well-lighted,
busy location before stopping.
Do
not stop on dark roadways or deserted areas while making deliveries.
Use
reputable truck stops. if possible, drive in tandem.
Keep your windows rolled up.
Maintain regular communications with your dispatcher.
Do not pick up any hitchhikers.
Suspicious
activity should immediately be reported to: the local FBI office FBI
Website
Or
by dialing 911
the
National Infrastructure Protection Center NIPC
Website.
The
NIPC Watch and Warning Unit can be reached by calling 202-323-3205 or
888-585-9078.
Department
of Justice tip line: 1-866-483-5137
Homeland
Security Website
For
more information on theft prevention, click here.