Tips for Preventing Auto Theft

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Don't Make It Easy for a Thief To Steal Your Wheels.
One vehicle is stolen every 20 seconds in the United States. Stolen cars, vans, trucks, and motorcycles cost victims time and money - and increase everyone's insurance premiums. They're also often used to commit other crimes. Don't become a victim of this serious crime.

The Basic Prevention Policy

• Never leave your keys in the car or ignition.
• Always lock your car, even if it's in front of your home.
• Copy your tag number and vehicle identification number (VIN) on a card and keep them with your driver's license.
• Keep the keys to your home and car separate.
• Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there's enough gas to get there and back.
• Avoid parking in isolated areas with little foot or auto traffic. Be especially alert in unstaffed lots and enclosed parking garages.
• If you think someone is following you, drive to the nearest police or fire station, open service station, or other open business to get help.
• Don't pick up hitchhikers. Don't hitchhike yourself.
• If you often drive at night, or alone, consider a CB radio or cellular phone to make it easier to summon help in an emergency.

Vehicle License Plate Safety Tips
Protect your vehicle license plates and the registration tabs. Numerous license tabs are being stolen and resold because proof of insurance is required in order to apply for current registration.

• Check your license plate occasionally to ensure your current year license tab is attached
• If you have a build up of past year tabs remove them prior to adding the current year
• Once you attach the current sticker - slice an X or diagonal lines, with a sharp razor blade, through the year tab so the sticker will not come apart in one piece
• A sturdy metal frame bolted to the license plate will discourage thieves from cutting the corner off your license plate in order to steal the year sticker
• Be aware of people loitering near the rear of vehicles
• Call the police if you suspect criminal activity

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