Misfortune can strike anyone anywhere. Thefts from a vehicle can happen while you are at work, at the park, at the store, and even at your own home. If the vehicle is forcibly entered, you will have to pay for repairs or insurance fees in addition to the loss of the stolen items. One of the best ways not to become a victim is to plan ahead carefully and follow some commonsense safety precautions in your daily routine:
- Lock your car doors, even when parked in your own driveway.
- If you know you are just going to the park to walk or exercise leave unnecessary items like electronics, important identification, mail, unneeded cash, credit cards, etc. at home.
- Do not leave valuables (or things that look of value) such as purses/tote bags, wallets, laptops, tools or cell phones in plain view. If you know you are going to be driving somewhere and parking your car, put valuables in the trunk before you leave as not to draw attention to your car.
- Keep detailed lists (in a safe location at home) of the items you frequently carry, such as account numbers, credit cards, gas cards, etc. and the proper contact numbers to call to cancel your account. Also list the make, model and serial numbers for electronics such as cell phones, digital cameras, laptops and portable music players.
- Park somewhere you feel comfortable, like a busy, highly visible area.
- Remember your pets are valuable too. Do not leave pets in parked cars even for short periods if the temperature is in the 60s or higher. Rolling down a window doesn’t guarantee protection either, pets could escape, be taken from the vehicle or passer-bys could be bitten.
- Have your keys in your hand as you approach your vehicle and lock the doors once you’re inside.
- Be aware of park closure times which vary at some locations.
