5 Ways to Protect Your Vehicle Against Break-Ins
The best protection drivers can take against car theft is to avoid seeming like an easy target. Thieves will often pursue unlocked or running vehicles with valuables in clear sight.
Most common items stolen from cars include:
- Cell phones
- Laptops
- Cash & Credit Cards
- Navigation (GPS) systems
- Radios & Speakers
- Documentation
- Registration & License plates/tabs
- Valuables (Sunglasses, Tools, etc.)
Below are five things we recommend you do to make your car a more difficult target against car break-ins.
Protect Your Vehicle and Your Belongings by:
1) Locking the doors and windows.
Thieves look for easy opportunities and the first thing they’ll check are open doors. Always lock your vehicle (even while driving) and roll up the windows no matter how soon you will return to your car. If you’re traveling with pets, you can use a second key or key fob to keep your car running while locked when you are away.
2) Hiding your valuables.
Leaving your belongings in clear view gives thieves certain payoff for breaking into your car. One of the best areas to hide your valuables is locking them in the trunk instead of the glove box or under a seat. If you want to ensure your items won't be stolen from your car, bring them inside with you.
3) Parking in well-lit areas.
Choose your parking spot carefully and park in busy areas where your car is easily seen. Thieves are more likely to be caught and often won’t attempt crimes in these areas. Avoid parking between larger vehicles, against dumpsters or fences, or in remote places.
4) Knowing what you keep in your car.
Remove any unnecessary personal information or items from your vehicle. This can prevent identify theft if confidential information is unintentionally disclosed. If you use a GPS device, store the address of a nearby business as your “Home” address. In some cases, car thieves will burglarize the victim’s home if they find their address.
5) Installing an alarm.
Newer cars usually have alarms installed, but if you drive an older model, you may want to consider installing one. Today you can find a variety of locks and alarms that offer an extra layer of protection for your car. Loud alarm systems can prevent break-ins by scaring off criminals with sound alone.
Helping You Be Prepared
At Farm Bureau Insurance, protecting you from the risks of everyday life is our mission. Contact an agent today and find a policy to help keep your vehicle protected.