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Vehicle Prowl Prevention
Vehicle prowls are the theft of property from a motor vehicle. Most are crimes of opportunity through locked doors and open windows where victims usually encounter expensive vehicle damage – especially to their windows, doors and locks. Large parking locations like shopping centers, housing communities, parks and schools are prime targets for a prowler since multiple vehicles can be hit in a short time span. Also, prowlers know the odds are good that someone will leave a door unlocked, a window down or keys in the ignition.
Unfortunately, vehicle prowls are very common. Luckily, they are preventable. Use these easy and inexpensive tips to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of vehicle prowl:
Parking & Securing Your Vehicle
- Use a garage or secure location whenever possible
- Park in well-lit areas where your car can be seen
- Avoid isolated areas. Park near locations frequently used by pedestrians
- If you hear something suspicious (shattering glass) or see someone looking into vehicles, call 911
- Roll up the windows and lock all doors
- Secure the trunk, hatches, bed-mounted tool boxes, and canopies
- Activate your alarm
- Install anti-theft devices
Remove These Items
- Cameras
- CD player and CDs
- Cell phones
- Checkbooks
- Clothing
- Credit/debit, gift cards
- Day planner
- Electronic devices
- Garage door opener
- GPS unit
- Jewelry
- Keys
- Laptop
- Luggage or bags
- Purses
- Receipts/statements
- Store bags or packages
- Tools
- Vehicle insurance, title and registration information
- Wallets
Anti-Theft Devices
- Steering wheel locking devices are easy to install and inexpensive
- Car alarms are convenient and effective - Especially if they disable the vehicle's starter when activated
- Install switches to interrupt the fuel supply or electrical systems
- Locking gas caps deters fuel from being siphoned
Tips
- Lock your doors & windows
- Remove your personal property
- Use anti-theft devices