Auto Theft and Burglary Safety Tips

1. Never leave your car running unattended. Many auto theft crimes are crimes of opportunity and a running or unattended car with keys inside is a great opportunity for thieves.

2. Never leave any keys in the car or ignition, inside a locked garage, or in hide-a-key boxes. Car thieves are well aware of hide-a-key locations; burglars who enter your home may not intend to steal your vehicle, but may If the opportunity presents itself.

3. Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home.

4. Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out of sight. Items left in view in your car are an open invitation to car burglars and thieves.

5. Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas, when possible. Auto thieves want to avoid detection and will seek vehicles that are parked in remote locations.

6. Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes. This may seem like a headache for the owner, but will deter some thieves who are looking for the least resistance.

7. Consider purchasing a vehicle theft tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently stolen model vehicles. On Star and LoJack are two systems being frequently employed by vehicle owners. They can help police track a stolen vehicle, and in some instances even remotely shut off your car's engine.

8. Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership title, or credit cards in your vehicle. This will prevent thieves from trying to sell your car if it is stolen.

9. If you must leave your key with a valet, attendant, or mechanic, leave only the ignition key. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable firm.

10. Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you. If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to take a report. The faster the vehicles information can be entered into the computer system, the better chance police have of a recovery.

Tips to remember:

• LOCK your vehicle and take the keys
• PARK carefully in well lighted areas
• USE anti-theft devices
• CLEAN it out; do not leave anything in it
• REMOVE the garage door opener
• UTILIZE your garage to park in, if possible
• MARK it; use an engraver to mark property
• REPORT suspicious activity or persons to the or
  for crimes in progress call 9-1-1

For more information, contact Officer Jeff Rose at 678- 801-4073 or jrose@acworth.org.