Car theft remains a problem in Washington State. Through September 31,011 vehicles have been stolen in Washington State. That’s about 85 vehicles per day!
During their research, auto theft detectives told a KIRO reporter that most auto thefts are occurring in parking lots. The detectives recommend,
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Parking in a well-lit area
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Park near the front of businesses
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If possible, park near a security camera
A new trend is that auto thieves are targeting vehicles within a sea of other cars, so try to avoid crowded areas.
Don’t leave anything in view. That will attract at least a break-in.
The reporter mentioned that you should not leave your car registration, with your home address on it, in your car. Thieves have been known to find the registration inside then go to your home to burglarize it. However, of late, the state Department of Licensing (DOL) has been sending out yearly car registration forms with the vehicle’s registered address at the bottom of the form and a statement giving you permission to snip the lower portion off of the form. So, you have a choice of removing your address before placing it in your vehicle or taking a picture of it on your smartphone then keeping it in a safe place.
Some people think that leaving their car unlocked will prevent their windows from being broken. However, many car thefts occur because doors are unlocked. Keeping your car doors unlocked only makes it easier for car thieves to steal your car.
Also, during the winter, some people warm up their cars in the morning before heading out to work. Or they may not turn off their car or lock the door when they run into a convenience store. Leaving a car running is an invitation for someone to steal it. Don’t leave your car running while you are away at any time.
There are items that you can purchase that will help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. One is a steering wheel lock. This is a device that you place on your steering wheel that prevents a thief from steering it. It is visible so that would-be car thieves can see them. Wheel locks are an effective deterrent. Several local law enforcement agencies have sponsored wheel lock giveaways often targeting Kia and Hyundai owners. Often, they run out within minutes. You can also purchase one online or at your local auto supply store.
Battery cutoff switches are another alternative. Also, some people have gone as far as purchasing their own parking boots.
KIRO TV-
Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, Charlotte, North Carolina:
Washington Auto theft Prevention Authority:
https://waautotheftpreventionauthority.org/resources/
Puget Sound Auto Theft Task Force:
Snohomish County Auto Theft Task Force:
https://snohomishcountywa.gov/2687/Auto-Theft-SNOCAT
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