Vehicle Security

Auto theft is a widespread crime that affects the whole community. Higher insurance rates, property damage and possible injuries and loss of life from accidents are the result. It’s a billion-dollar-a- year crime. The thieves’ motives are joyriding, transportation, or profit by either selling the vehicle or stripping the parts.

You can reduce the risk of theft of your unattended car, its parts or contents, by observing certain precautions:

The majority of stolen cars are left unlocked, often with the keys in the ignition. Whether you leave your car for a moment or for several hours, always lock it and take the keys with you. Never leave your vehicle with the engine running. Don't make it easy for a thief.

Safeguard Keys - Keeps car keys and house keys on separate rings. Never have an identification tag on your car key ring. Thieves may use it to locate your car. Never hide an extra car key under the hood.

Secure Valuables and Parcels - Never leave chequebooks, credit cards or other such articles unattended in your car. Lock valuables in the trunk.

Park in Well-Lit and Busy Areas- This is important for both your personal safety and the protection of your car and its contents.

Secure your Registration - Do not keep your vehicle registration or drivers licence inside your car. Carry it with you.

Mark Your Property - Criminals have also found it profitable to steal equipment and accessories. Engraving tools are available via Operation Identification, to mark equipment and accessories such as batteries, stereos, CB radios and hubcaps.

DISCOURAGE THE THIEF

Some thieves specialize in lifting door-locking buttons with a coat hanger. consider purchasing smooth, non-flared locking buttons for your car doors.

Hood locks are available for vehicles with hoods that can be opened from the outside. Anti-theft alarm systems can be installed on your vehicle. Alarms can be wired to go off in any door, hood or trunk is opened and to detect any movement of the car.

Fuel and electrical cutoff devices can be installed to shut off fuel to a vehicle engine shortly after starting, if the vehicle is stolen. Hidden switches can be wired to prevent starting a car with a stolen key or to help deter easy jump-start.

A device can be used that attaches to the steering wheel of your vehicle and is removed by the use of a key. There is also a device, which is permanently attached to the steering column and protects the column.

The use of anti-theft devices are highly recommended, but remember, for the device to be effective you must use it and use it properly.