Anti car-jacking film 'could delay help'

The protective film makes car windows "resistant" to thieves

An ambulance service is warning that a protective window film designed to counter car-jacking could prevent crews reaching people trapped in their vehicles.

The RAC had suggested that drivers should protect themselves from "extreme violence" by using an anti smash-and-grab protective film on their car windows.

The advice came after a series of high profile car-jacking incidents across the country.

But Staffordshire Ambulance Service asked motorists to be aware that using the film could mean vital minutes are lost as medical crews try to reach people after an accident.

'Word of caution'

Bob Lee, a spokesman for Staffordshire Ambulance Service told the BBC: "We are not saying it shouldn't be fitted.

"We support any crime prevention initiative. We just issue a word of caution.

"People should be aware of the potential problems it can cause before they fit it."

The RAC has suggested that film which lessens the risk of windows shattering is suited to car-jack "hotspots", including Salford in Greater Manchester, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and parts of west London.

Medical delay

Protective film on car windows is widely used in South Africa and North America and the toughest US safety films protect against penetration by metal bars and hammers.

They also stop victims being showered with broken glass.

But Staffordshire Ambulance Service said the film could keep medics out as well as thieves.

Mr Lee speaking on BBC Radio Stoke said: "They can't get in because the car is locked.

"They can't break the windscreen with the equipment they've got because it's toughened to that degree.

"It needs specialist equipment, so they send for help, that means there's a delay."

'Extreme violence'

Edmund King of the RAC Foundation, the motoring organisation's campaigning arm, said: "There has been a recent rise in horrific car-jacking attacks.

"This has highlighted an urgent need for motorists to be aware of ways to protect themselves from thieves who will, in some cases, use extreme violence to obtain a vehicle or its contents.

"Motorists who use the film will be better able to protect their vehicle windows and ultimately themselves and their cars."

In February, Home Secretary David Blunkett warned that anyone involved in car-jacking would be dealt with very severely.

Recent car-jack victims have included former Tory ministers Steve Norris, Edwina Currie and TV personality Anthea Turner.

There have been a number of other high-profile car thefts involving members of the public.

The RAC said that as well as cars, raiders also targeted items like mobile phones, expensive watches or laptop computers.

Many cases have taken place when vehicles were waiting at traffic lights.