Safe-Guarding Your Vehicle This Holiday Season

Tis' the season to shop 'til you drop, but there are a few important things for vehicle owners to keep in mind.

Thousands of dollars of merchandise is stolen from vehicles every year.

This does not include damage to vehicles, insurance costs or the personal costs to victims.

By following these suggested recommendations, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim.

• Always close all windows and lock your vehicle whenever you leave your vehicle unattended. Park in well lit areas with pedestrian traffic.
• Never leave any valuables, including wallets/purses/cell phones and shopping bags, in your car.
• It is especially important to ensure that there is nothing of value visible through the windows.
• Once your valuables have been removed or secured out of view, consider placing an "All Valuables Removed" warning card in your window.
• Remember, many vehicles also have trunk access from within the vehicle. So, when ever possible, take valuables out of the car when it is unattended.
• Stereos are a prime target. Consider purchasing removable brackets that will allow you to remove these items when leaving your vehicle.
• Make sure you know the make, model and serial numbers of all stereo or technical equipment in your vehicle so that it can be provided to police in the event of a theft.
• When at home, keep your locked vehicle inside your locked garage. Better safe than sorry!

It is important to report all suspicious persons in or around parked vehicles.

As always, IF YOU WITNESS A CRIME IN PROGRESS, CALL 911