There will always be difficulties associated with living in a more contemporary society, such as having to pay more and more bills and juggling the responsibilities of a job that never stops.

It’s critical to prioritize our personal safety amidst these demands, particularly in circumstances where ignoring the warning signs could have dire repercussions.

Therefore, if you ever find a plastic bottle wedged between your car’s tire and frame, pay attention and act quickly. In a situation like this, call 911 right away. Continue reading to learn why.

Thieves these days are getting more and more creative. Indeed, they have devised a novel and potent strategy for car theft that is raising alarm across the globe!

Potential carjackers have discovered a cheap, covert way to take cars; all it takes is a water bottle used as a signal. This strategy has quickly spread, with reports of cases even in the United States, despite being first documented in Limpopo, South Africa.

The plan goes like this: after seeing a possible victim, the assailant will deliberately “mark” the automobile by pressing a water bottle up against one of the wheels. According to MotorBiscuit, the bottle is typically put on the front passenger side wheel to prevent the driver from seeing it when they get in the car.

Unsettling crackling noises are produced by the empty plastic bottle as the driver starts to move the vehicle. Most drivers’ first instinct is to pull over and look for whatever they may have ran over. The time is right for the carjacker to make their move.

When the engine is running and the driver leaves the keys inside the car, the burglar can quickly get inside and take off, leaving the owner stranded. Alternatively, the burglar can take advantage of the opportunity to enter the vehicle and take items like a wallet or cellphone that was left behind. When the motorist gets out of the car to look for the source of the noise, they put themselves in danger in either scenario.

To protect yourself against this tactic, Michigan radio station WCRZ advises that drivers take a moment before getting into your car to inspect the wheels. Check for anything unusual or out of order. If you find a water bottle wedged between the tire and the frame, be on high alert. The potential thief might be observing your actions.

You can then, discreetly, use your phone to dial 911, alerting the police about the situation and expressing your concern for your safety. Provide precise details about your location and your vehicle to ensure a swift response.

Did you learn something from this story? If so, you may be interested in reading about what it means when you see square waves form on the water surface (you’d better keep away and warn others immediately)!