Theft-proof your car

Car thefts and break-ins are increasingly common, but there ARE a few things you can do to make your car less appealing to would-be thieves.

At home:

• Running into the house just for a minute to grab something you left behind? Turn off your car and take your keys with you. Someone could easily jump in and drive away.
• Make a habit of locking your car – even when it’s parked in your garage. This may seem silly, but it’s amazing how many cars are broken into when people are inside their homes.
• If you do leave your car unlocked, be sure to keep your garage door opener in an inconspicuous place. A quick-thinking thief may grab your garage door opener and return later.

When you’re out and about:

• Don’t be tempted to leave your windows down – even just a crack – when you run into a store. It makes access to your car too easy.
• Keep valuables and shopping bags in your trunk. There’s no need to tempt fate.
• Park in well-lit lots with plenty of foot traffic. A break-in attempt could easily be thwarted by passers-by.

Other smart moves:

• Install an alarm, or consider putting alarm stickers on your car windows. (Why not?)
• Take advantage of new technology, including ignition locks, hood locks, trunk locks and gasoline cut-off switches.