After years in the auto locksmith industry, helping clients with our key replacement services due to car break-ins, I’ve learned that they are crimes of opportunity that have one thing in common - something has been left in the vehicle that is worth stealing. The majority of criminal acts related to cars could easily be avoided by taking a few preventative steps that include the following.
Keep Temptations Out of Sight
Before you reach your destination (never when you arrive), place all possible temptations out of sight, always avoiding leaving valuables out in the open. Many people open the trunk, fill it full of their purchases, close it, and walk away to do other shopping. The important thing to remember is that if someone happens to be watching, once you're gone, they'll be tempted to break into your car. In addition, always put valuables in a safe place before you get to the ball game, the park, the beach, etc.
Examples of tempting items that criminals are attracted to include the chance to get a hold of credit cards, MP3 players, packages, and so on. In today's "mobile-centric" small business world, cars act as an office, transporting vital devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The theft of these items can be devastating for a small business. It's always important to remember that simply covering items with a jacket or blanket doesn't help. As a matter of fact, doing this can be an even bigger temptation, with car thieves breaking a window just to see what's important enough to try to hide.
Vacation Travel
There's never a good time have your car broken into but it's particularly troublesome if you on vacation. Thieves gravitate to tourist areas because they know that rental cars are usually packed with valuables, including iPads, cameras, jewelry, etc., nestled inside the luggage. Even though most tourists place their valuables in the trunk, supposedly away from temptation, there are plenty of brazen thieves out there that have no problem punching out a keyhole, prying open the trunk or even break windows to grab (referred to as “smash and grab”) anything within easy reach. What all this means is that it's important to be even more aware of your actions when traveling. Moving belongings/valuables into the safety your accommodations as soon as you arrive is one of the first things you should do when you reach your destination.
Lock up Tight
Always completely close all of the windows (don't forget the sunroof) and lock all the doors. Even during the hot summer months, dealing with a hot car for a short time is better than having your car broken into. It's also important to lock the car doors while you’re driving. It's a fact that thieves have actually been known to grab items that are within easy reach on the seats when drivers stop at a traffic light, etc., especially if they're driving a convertible.
Remove Spare Keys
Leaving spare keys in your glove compartment or under the seat can be an open invitation to thieves. Experienced criminals know the common hiding spots for spare keys. When you stash a spare set in these accessible places, you make their job easier. They don't have to break into your home to steal your car keys; they only need to ransack your vehicle. A safer option is to leave spare keys with a trusted friend or family member. Remember that extra caution can go a long way in deterring thieves.
Install a Car Alarm
Car alarms serve as a valuable defense against break-ins. It not only alerts you and others to a break-in but can also deter potential thieves from attempting to break into your vehicle in the first place. Criminals prefer quick, discreet thefts. The attention drawn by a loud car alarm can be a strong deterrent.
Park in a Highly Visible, Well Lit Area
You can lessen the chance of an auto break-in by parking your car in a highly visible, well-lit area. Parking your vehicle in a remote, dim area in a parking garage or lot will make it an easy target. Adequate lighting can deter thieves as they're less likely to work in well-illuminated spaces. It's a simple yet effective way to enhance your car's security.
If you notice questionable activity, find another place to park. If you’re feeling uneasy, report your suspicions to the local police. You may be helping keep others from becoming victims of a car break-in or even worse.
Install Anti-Theft Devices
Boosting your car's security is smart, and you can do it by adding anti-theft devices. They can make it more challenging for thieves to steal it. Here are a few options to consider:
- Wheel Locks attach to your car's wheels and prevent them from turning. Without the ability to move your car, thieves find it almost impossible to drive away. Wheel locks are visible, which also acts as a deterrent.
- Tire locks, also known as "clamps" or "boots," are placed over one or more of your car's tires. Like wheel locks, they stop your vehicle from moving.
- Electronic Immobilizers prevent your car from starting without the correct key or code. Even if a thief manages to break into your car, they won't be able to drive it without the key.
Adding one or more of these devices provides a layer of protection for your vehicle. With these measures, you can have greater peace of mind about your car's safety.
Be Mindful Of Location
Avoid parking in areas with a history of break-ins to reduce the risk of your vehicle becoming a target. Park at shopping centers or businesses with security cameras or guards when possible. These spots discourage criminals. Taking such proactive approaches can help protect your car from theft. Following these precautions can reduce the risk of break-ins and protect your vehicle. A combination of these measures is often the most effective way to ensure the safety of your vehicle. If you have experienced car break-ins and need keys or locks replaced, contact an emergency auto locksmith as soon as possible.
Modern car alarm systems are often linked to security technology on mobile apps. You can receive a notification on your phone if a break-in attempt is detected. This response allows you to notify the authorities or alert security.
Park in a Highly Visible, Well Lit Area
You can lessen the chance of an auto break-in by parking your car in a highly visible, well-lit area. Parking your vehicle in a remote, dim area in a parking garage or lot will make it an easy target.
If you notice questionable activity, find another place to park. If you’re feeling uneasy, report your suspicions to local police. You may be helping keep others from ending up a victim of a car break-in or even worse.
If you have experienced car break-ins and need key or locks replaced, contact an emergency auto locksmith as soon as possible.
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