Protect your Assets, Don’t be a Victim of Car Theft It’s already a frantic scramble to get out the door and make it to work on time. You snatch up your gear, fumble to get the front door locked and blindly swirl around to realize that being late will be just one of the understatements for the day. You stare out in wide-eyed disbelief and look around to see who might be playing a cruel trick on you…your car is gone. Although statistics show that auto thefts have declined over the past five years, the Federal Bureau of Investigation reported in 2008 that a car is stolen every 33 seconds. Especially in today’s slumping economy, more and more cars are being broken into and stolen for valuable parts and accessories that can be resold in the black market. From your catalytic converter to expensive aftermarket upgrades, your car could be the next target in a steady crime trend. So how do you protect yourself from becoming a victim of car theft? Insurance companies and law enforcement agencies stress the importance of protecting our assets. Obvious preventative measures should be taken, like keeping car doors locked and installing anti-theft devices to our vehicles. However, there are other ways to reduce the chances of getting your car stolen that you might not have realized. Have your Windows Tinted Personal effects like wallets, purses, car stereos and other valuable items left in plain site may be the only temptation a thief needs to break into or steal your car. Although these items should never be left in plain site regardless, window tint makes it even more difficult for someone to look inside of your car. Criminals are looking for quick and easy targets. A car with tinted windows will most likely be passed over for a car that is easy to look into. Disconnect your Car Battery If you must leave your car parked for an extended period of time, disconnecting the car battery is a good idea. Again, thieves want to get in and out quickly. If they are unable to get your car started, they will most likely move on. Electronic Keys Many newer cars come with electronic keys. The keys are coded specifically for the car owner of the vehicle. Without these codes, the car will not be able to start. Steering Wheel Locks/Collars An inexpensive steering wheel lock may also be a deterrent for a car thief. With the collar in place, the only way to start the car is by way of hot wiring. Some thieves will move on to an easier target. Never Leave a Set of Keys in Car Always take your car keys with you and never leave a hidden set anywhere in your vehicle. It is better to call a locksmith or your insurance company should you lock yourself out of your car. Lessen the “Bling” In addition to some of the more obvious tips in preventing car theft, you should also consider how “flashy” your car is. Spending thousands of dollars on super cool “rims” or racing vinyls may seem like a great idea when you buy them, but they can also attract a lot of unwanted attention. The more your car is boasted, or “sticks out” the more susceptible you become to theft. Keep the aftermarket upgrades toned down, or you might end up spending a lot more in the long run. There are no 100% guarantees that you can completely avoid becoming a victim of car theft, but taking additional measures to protect your vehicle can greatly reduce your chances. Not only will you be protecting your own vehicle, but also you could be helping to put an end to the number of car thefts that continue on each year. Category:Home › Home • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 2 • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 1 • Should the crew of the Sea Shepherd board whaling ships? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 13 • Grandparents: Can blogging chronicle your genealogy? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 12 • Are teachers unions the cause of public school problems today? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 11