VEHICLE SECURITY
Most cars are taken by amateurs who can be stopped.  You can increase you protection against this type of crime by taking the following sensible precautions.
     
  • An unlocked car is an open invitation to a car thief - and take the keys with you.
  • Close all windows - professional thieves have tools that unlock cars through the smallest openings.
  • When you park your car, remove the cell phone, cassette players and other valuable possessions.  Do not leave gift-wrapped packages or cameras lying on the seat.  Lock ALL valuables in the trunk or take them with you.
  • Lock your car even if you are going to make a quick stop at a gas station or mini mall.
  • Don't leave your auto in an unattended public parking lot for an extended period of time.  A car is five times more likely to be stolen from an unattended lot than from the street or attended lot.
  • If possible, park you car where you do not have to leave your keys.  Only leave the ignition key if you have to leave the keys.
  • Never attach a tag with your name and address on it.
  • Park in well-lit areas at night with lots of people around.
  • Turn your wheels sharply toward the curb.  This will make it more difficult for thieves to tow your car.
  • Keep your registration and proof of insurance in your wallet not the car.
  • When buying a car, check out the anti-theft options, such as interior hood and trunk releases, locking steering columns and others.
  • Consider the purchase of and installation of a security device's such as kill switches, fuel switch, locking gas cap, locking devices for batteries, wheels etc, alarms.
  • Never leave your car running and unattended to warm it up in the morning.

CARJACKING!!!!

This violent, random form of auto theft is on the rise.  A driver of any vehicle can be a target of someone with a weapon.  It can happen anywhere, day or night.  Here are some precautions.

  • Keep your doors locked.

  • Park in well-lit areas.

  • Be alert of your surroundings and people approaching your vehicle.

  • Stay on heavily traveled street, avoid lightly traveled streets especially at night.

  • Keep car and house keys on separate chain.

  • Keep the garage door opener in your purse or briefcase.

  • When stopped in traffic, always give your self enough room from the car in front of you to make a quick getaway.

  • IF SOMEONE IS THREATENING YOU WITH A WEAPON, GIVE UP THE VEHICLE, IT IS NOT WORTH YOUR LIFE.