Protect Yourself, Lock Your Vehicle

Unlocked Vehicles make it Easy for Thieves in Recent Thefts

December 8, 2006

Recently there has been number of thefts at night from parked vehicles. The common element in all the thefts is that the vehicles were unlocked. Don't become a victim. Protect yourself, lock your vehicle.

Items stolen from vehicles include electronic equipment, cash and credit cards, compact discs, and cell phones. Always lock your car, no matter where you park, be it at the store, mall, work, school, and especially at home or in your driveway. Don’t leave important papers or credit cards in your vehicle, even in the glove compartment. Several victims have additionally been victimized by credit card fraud.

When you do park, never leave valuables in sight; take your purse, cellular phone, compact discs, cameras and anything of value with you or put them in the trunk. If you can't replace it, don't leave it in your vehicle.

Protect yourself. Never leave spare keys in the car or in “hiding spots”. A vehicle reported stolen was unlocked and the keys were in the vehicle. Make sure your vehicle windows are closed. If you have a garage, use it, and if you have a garage door opener, don’t leave it openly displayed in your vehicle. Protect yourself. Always lock the door from your house to your garage.

Don't let thieves take everything from your vehicle

Theft involving vehicles most often take place at night and are most often committed by young males. If you vehicle has an alarm system, make sure the vehicle is closed, locked and the alarm system is activated. An alarm system will deter or discourage the thief and alert others of entry into your car.

Follow these simple tips and protect you and your property. If you see any suspicious activity in your neighborhood, or an unfamiliar individual around a car in the neighborhood, please call police communications at 908.876.3232 or call 911. Entering a vehicle is a crime the same as theft. We want you and your property safe. Please help us in achieving that goal.