To lock the car doors in a crowd?

[ShatterResistant]

Please help me settle a "discussion" with DH. We were driving home this afternoon, in the dark, with 2 under 2 in the back. On the way, we passed a football ground, just as the crowd were coming out after the game. The traffic slowed right down, as there were people all over the road, although they weren't rowdy at all. I instinctively leaned down to push the central locking button, and DH said, what are you doing? When I explained that I was locking the doors, just in case, he didn't get it at all, and said I was being paranoid. Was I? I mean, in case of what, I don't suppose I really know. Car jacking? Opportunistic baby kidnapping? Very unlikely, I know, but POSSIBLE, right?! I should add, I'm not generally paranoid, and it's not something he habitually accuses me of. Also, he is a football fan, so I think he thought I was doubting his people, but I would do it in any crowd. So, who is right?!

cutleryhands, its just, imo, common sense, like you try to avoid being pickpocketed by keeping wallet in inside pocket not outside pocket, or putting handbag on chair or table not floor in a busy cafe. just part of the day to day rules of city living. also like locking your house door behind you when you go inside.

Surely any mugger knows your phone and purse are in your handbag, over your shoulder ? Its not personal, i just think its comparable yet you accept this risk every day.

Differing opinions obviously. I have come to hate the media driven fear that drives everyone to risk assess something this simple. Also i don't like the idea of doors being locked if someone ploughs into the back you but you've got me at it now :-)

imo its probably not like mugging - violence and confrontation - more like bag snatching or pickpocketing
i am definitely careful to do things to minimise my risk of both of those
not paranoia, as the risk is reasonably high enough that it is worth being sensible
like locking your house door when you are in - just reduces your risk of opportunistic theft
these kinds of robberies are common near me so perhaps it depends on your area

To whoever said about cars going into water and waiting for pressure to equalise - they tested that on top gear a few years ago and found it was very difficult to get out if I remember correctly...

I think they got RoSPA on board and tried other ways and basically came down to trying to get out as soon as you can to increase your chances...

Their other advice if you find yourself in a car that has rolled onto its roof and you find yourself still plugged in is not to unplug yourself straight away as gravity pulls you down and you land on your head/neck with your body weight which is the cause of lots of bad injuries - and a double bugger if you've escaped serious injury in the accident... So you need to put an arm out to brace yourself and be aware of how you are positioned - and release yourself carefully so as best not to fall on your head iyswim.

thanks zipzap