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Crime
Prevention, Education and Resources
Auto
Burglary and Theft Prevention
A vehicle is stolen every 19 seconds in the United
States and in 1997, over 1,500,000 vehicles were stolen.
Stolen cars, vans, trucks and motorcycles cause economic hardship
for victims, increase everyone's insurance premiums, and may be
used to commit other, violent crimes.
Everyday, cars and trucks are stolen from malls, streets, driveways,
parking lots and garages, and car dealerships. Vehicle theft can
happen anyplace and at anytime.
A few common sense steps can help you avoid being a victim of the
nations fastest growing property crime.
- Never leave your car running unattended.
- Never leave your keys in the car or ignition.
- Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is
in front of your home.
- Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked
this is the number one reason cars are broken into. Put them in
the trunk out of sight.
- Always park in busy, well-lighted areas.
- Install a mechanical device that locks to the steering wheel,
column, or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more than
a few degrees. Commonly called clubs, collars or J-bars, these
devices can act as a deterrent if installed properly.
- Investigate the purchase of a auto security system if you live
in a high-theft area or drive a theft-prone vehicle.
- Always leave just the ignition key with the attendant, if you
park in a commercial garage or lot. Make sure no identifying information
is attached. Do the same when you take your car for repairs.
- Carry your registration and insurance card with you. Don't leave
personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle.
- Copy your license plate and vehicle identification (VIN) numbers
on a card and keep them with your driver's license. If your vehicle
is stolen, police will need this information promptly.
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