Vehicle Theft Prevention

Over 1 million vehicles - cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles and trailers are stolen every year. More than 1.6 million vehicles - cars, trucks, motorcycles and trailers were stolen in 1990 at an estimated national cost of over eight billion dollars.

PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE

• Lock your car and pocket the key when you leave, even if just for a minute. Close windows all the way and make sure the trunk is locked.

• Control your keys. Never leave an identification tag on your key ring. If your keys are lost or stolen , it could help a thief locate your car and burglarize your home.

• Don't leave your registration inside your vehicle; carry it with you. Important identification papers or credit cards should never be left in the glove compartment.

• If carrying packages or valuable items, store them in your trunk, if possible. If you do leave packages, clothing or other articles in the car, make sure they are out of sight.

• Park in well lit, busy areas. Avoid leaving your vehicle in unattended parking lots for long periods of time. If you park in a lot where you must leave a key, leave the ignition only, to protect items in the trunk or glove box.

• When buying a car, ask about anti-theft options such as steering column locks, alarms, switches that interrupt the fuel or electronic systems, and locks for tape decks, batteries and gas tanks. Many insurance companies offer reduced rates to owners who install security devices.

• Keep your cars vehicle identification number (VIN) and a complete description in a safe place at home. Since 1969, the federal government has required manufacturers to engrave a unique number, the VIN, on all passenger cars in one visible and several hidden locations. One VIN is engraved on a metal plate on the dashboard near the windshield. VINs of stolen cars are registered with the FBI's National Crime Information Center.

BICYCLES, MOTORCYCLES AND TRAIL BIKES

• Park out of sight in a garage or basement, or use a cover.

• Engrave with an Operation Identification number recommended by local law enforcement.

• Lock all bicycles with a case-hardened chain or cable and lock, winding the cable through the frame and both wheels and then around a fixed object.

• Use the fork lock found on most street motorcycles. For extra protection of your bicycle or motorcycle, invest in a heavy U-shaped lock made of extremely hard steel that cannot be hack-sawed or a case-hardened chain and a sturdy padlock.

• Watch out for key numbers! Some motorcycle manufacturers stamp the key number on the lock. With this number, anyone can go to a key maker and have a key cut that will fit perfectly. Many key makers ask for identification, but don't take chances, write down your key number, store the number in a safe place and then file it off the lock.

TRUCKS AND RV's

• Many specialized vehicles don't have VINs and should be marked with another ID number, such as a drivers license.

• Lock up easy-to-carry items like motors and camping gear before leaving your vehicle.

• Use secured 'toppers' or tool boxes for your truck. Don't assume a thief can't lift a box because it's heavy.

IF IT HAPPENS TO YOU

• If you vehicle is broken into or stolen, inform the police immediately. Stolen vehicles may be used in the commission of other crimes. Your quick action may both aid in recovering your vehicle and prevent its use for illegal purposes.