Joe Pfeiffer wrote:

snip

Just switching off the engine WILL NOT WORK with the steering column
locks on almost all cars since 1975 or so. I'm sure you said that and
hit send before thinking about it Chris.


There's an "ignition off, lock not on yet" position. But as somebody
else pointed out, trying to get that position in those circumstances
would be asking a lot.

I did think about it, briefly. Can't say as I've ever tried it.
Automatic cars are uncommon here. Having a clutch pedal makes the answer
obvious. Without it, turning off the engine was my gut reaction. Maybe
not the best one, but a step in the right direction. Better than calling
911 on your mobile phone, I'd say.

By the way, Joe, did you get the message I sent about the database
project? Your suggestions were helpful; sorry it took me a long time to
reply.

Best wishes,

Chris