According to the Pennsylvania Auto Theft Prevention Authority, a vehicle is stolen in the US an average of every 26 seconds. (That’s right – seconds).
Not only is this a terrible inconvenience to the car owner but it contributes to increasing costs in protecting your property.
Below are some tips that can help reduce your risk of auto theft:
Turn your car off
Don’t leave your car running unattended, even to dash into a grab a coffee.
Take your keys with you
Don’t leave any keys in the car or ignition (even inside a locked garage). And don’t use hide-a-key boxes on your car. Thieves know more hiding spaces than you do.
Mark your VIN in more places
In high theft areas the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should be etched on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid. This makes it difficult for a thief to market your stolen car parts.
Mark your territory
Slide your business card or piece of paper with your name and phone number in the door window so it goes into your car door. This creates another opportunity for the police to determine ownership if the VIN is scratched out or your car is parted by thieves.
Lock your car
Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your house.
Hide Your iPad
Don’t leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out of sight.
Find a safe place to park
Park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas, whenever possible
Add extra protection
Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes.
Keep your title somewhere else
Don’t leave your vehicle ownership title in your car. This just makes it easier for a thief to sell it without being questioned.
