SCVNews.com | Sheriff's Department Offers Safety Tips and Vehicle Theft Awareness

To prevent vehicle theft or theft from vehicles, remember the following simple safety tips.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, in conjunction with the National Crime Bureau, recommends the following tips to help prevent vehicle theft.
-Park in well-lit areas.

-Close and lock all windows and doors when parking.

– Hide your valuables out of sight, for example in the glove compartment or trunk.

-Do not leave your keys in your vehicle.

-Do not leave the area while your vehicle is running.

-If your vehicle is stolen, call law enforcement and your insurance company immediately, as reporting a vehicle as soon as possible after it is stolen increases the chances of recovering it.

-You will need to provide the vehicle make/model, color, license plate number, and VIN number of the vehicle. (The VIN number can be found on your insurance policy or proof of insurance card.) Try to keep this information easily accessible.

A few additional preventative measures can help make it more difficult for thieves to steal a vehicle:
-Install a car alarm in your vehicle if one was not installed by the manufacturer.

-Use a visible steering wheel lock to make your car less attractive to thieves.

-Installing immobilizers prevents the engine from starting without the correct key, adding an extra layer of security.

-Install a hidden kill switch that can prevent your car from starting unless it is activated.

-New technology allows thieves to amplify your key fob signal to unlock your car. Consider placing your key fob in a signal-blocking pouch.

-Install surveillance cameras in your parking lot or driveway.

-Park your vehicle if possible. For more information, visit the website.

Related