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Don't Become A Victim: 4 Tips To Avoid Having Your Car Stolen

29 November 2016 by Herman Mills

The holidays will soon be here. It's time to head out for some holiday shopping. According to statistics, car thieves are quite active during the holidays. In fact, in 2013, more than 4,000 cars were stolen on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas combined. Before you head to the mall, make sure you've taken precautions to keep your car safe. Here are four tips that will help prevent car theft this holiday season.

Park in a Well-Lit Area

You can't always park near the stores, but you can make sure you're parked in a safe location. Before you park your car, make sure you're in a well-lit area, preferably by a parking lot light. Even if you arrive while it's daylight, it might be dark by the time you leave. Parking under a light will deter thieves from choosing your car as a target.

Avoid Leaving Packages in View

When thieves target a car, they want one that's going to provide them with the maximum benefit – whether that involves the value of the actual car, or the contents that are inside the car. You can reduce the chance of having your car stolen by keeping your valuables out of view. First, never leave your purse or wallet in the car. Second, never leave your packages out where would-be thieves can see them. If your car is loaded down with packages, it's going to become a target for thieves. Protect your car by locking all your packages inside the trunk. If you run out of room, try taking some of your packages home before continuing with your shopping.

Activate Your Anti-Theft Device

If your car is equipped with an anti-theft device, it's only going to work if you activate it. Simply shutting the door, and clicking the locking mechanism isn't necessarily going to activate your alarm. Some devices won't engage until you push the button and hear the horn beep. That's your cue that the alarm has been set and the anti-theft device is activated.

Etch the Vehicle Identification Number

If you're in the mall when your car is stolen, the thieves may be long gone before you even realize it. Once thieves have your car, they may try to dismantle it for the parts or sell it outright. Having your vehicle identification number – VIN – etched on the glass will deter thieves from stealing your car. The etching makes your car easily identifiable, and reduces the value of your car to thieves. VIN etching is quick and easy to do.

The holidays are almost here. Don't become a crime statistic. The tips provided here will help prevent your car from being stolen. For more information, contact local professionals like Quick Vin Verifications.

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