Preventing Auto Thefts

What you can do:

No amount of prevention can guarantee that your car will not be stolen, but by taking a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce your chances of becoming another auto theft victim.

• Close your windows, lock your doors, conceal your valuables and take your keys.
• Use a steering column locking device.
• Engrave your vehicle ID number on your windshield.
• Use an alarm that shuts off your electrical or fuel systems when activated.
• Park your car in well lighted, well traveled areas.
• Put all packages out of sight.
• Install a hidden ignition "kill" switch.
• Park your car in your garage at home.
• Do not store spare keys in or around your vehicle.

Remember:

If you leave your car unlocked, leave your keys in the car, or leave your valuables in sight, your chances of becoming a victim is:1 in 30

If you lock your car, take your keys, and conceal your valuables your chances of becoming a victim is:
1 in 1000

If you lock your car, take your keys, conceal your valuables, and use a visible anti-theft device the chances of becoming a victim is:1 in 30,000

Other links:

• http://www.auto-theft.info/
• http://www.heatreward.com/devices.html
• https://secure1.insweb.com/learningcenter/articles/auto-devices.htm
• http://www.getfacts.org/prevention.html
• http://www.ravelco.com/history.htm
• http://www.transalt.org/info/caralarms/11prevention.html
• http://www.lojack.com/anti_theft_device.html
• http://www.valvoline.com/carcare/articleviewer.asp?pg=ccr20030801tp&print=true