Auto theft is a property crime that is racing out of control leaving numerous victims in its dust. The loss of a vehicle to theft causes the victim a multitude of problems. Car thieves leave individuals and families without transportation and cause insurance rates to skyrocket. There is time away from work, an inability to shop for groceries, absenteeism from school, college and church along with an emotional scar that may linger for a lifetime. This in turn causes a rippling affect on the community resulting in economic loss, productivity deficiencies and a sense of fear.

Most car thieves will strike under the cloak of darkness. However, auto theft can easily occur at high noon absent community awareness! Preventing auto theft has been an on-going dilemma for many years. Law enforcement can fight this criminal activity by engaging in pro-active patrol targeting high risk areas such as shopping malls, public garages, parks, and sparsely populated rural areas. However it is not reasonable to expect law enforcement to be the only line of defense in combating auto theft. Vehicle owners can actively participate in the protection of their vehicles by deploying a few important tactics. Here are some suggestions to help protect against auto theft:

• Disengage the ignition and take the keys when exiting the vehicle. 

• Lock all of the doors and close the windows.

• Do not hide a spare key on the vehicle. Everyone knows the hiding places.

• Store any valuables or packages in the trunk or glove compartment. The odds of vehicle burglary / theft increase when valuables are in plain view.

• Park your vehicle in areas that are open, well lit and attended. Crooks tend to avoid committing crimes when potential witnesses are present.

• When parking on the street, make sure the wheels are turned to the curb. Towing becomes more difficult with wheels angled to the curb.

• Install a car alarm to raise awareness of potential criminal activity.

• Utilize your garage by parking the locked vehicle inside. Close and lock the garage door after exiting the vehicle.

• Original paperwork such as title and registration should not be stored in the vehicle. Keep these items in your wallet or purse. It is easier to resell your car with possession of the original documents.
• Etch the VIN (vehicle identification number) on your windows, trunk liner, doors and other areas of the vehicle. A car thief quickly alters the VIN on a stolen vehicle. Etching the VIN in alternate locations makes life miserable for the thief.

• Consider a tracking device to assist the police in locating the vehicle if stolen.

The most important tactic that you can employ is to maintain a certain level of vigilance and awareness of your surroundings. Being alert to your environment and thinking ahead is half the battle. Don’t make it easy for car thieves, especially during the holiday season!

Dr. Santarlas is a former Deputy Chief of Police. Thomas Santarlas