Statistics show that more than 140 vehicles are stolen in Australia every day. With staggering statistics like this, it is crucial that you take effective steps to protect your vehicle and your personal property within your car. The good news is that there are several steps you can take today to reduce your overall risk of having your vehicle broken into or stolen. Below is a look at several things you should do to protect your valuable assets.
Always Lock Car Doors
This may seem like a logical step, but many vehicle owners do not make it a common practice to lock their car doors every time. The problem is that your vehicle’s locks are the first line of protection against criminals. In many cases, thieves will continue searching until they find an unlocked door. While this will not prevent all thieves, it will greatly lower your risk. Always remember to lock your doors, whether you are parking at your home, in a parking garage, at work, or at the store.
Never Leave Vehicle Running
Leaving your vehicle running unattended, even if only for a few minutes, will greatly increase your risk of having your vehicle stolen. Auto thieves are always on the lookout for careless drivers. It is best never to leave your car running unattended, even if you are just running back into your house to get something or you are going into a convenience store to pick up a few things. Remember, it only takes an experienced thief a few seconds to steal your car.
Move Valuables Out of Sight
Thieves commonly glance into cars as they pass by to see if any valuables are inside. Just the sight of any high-priced items, such as a laptop, purse, or money, could entice a robber to break your windows and steal your personal belongings. It is recommended that you never leave any type of valuable in plain sight. Instead, move these items under the car seat or place them in the trunk of your car.
Install Car Security System
One of the best ways to prevent an auto theft is to have a car alarm installed. An alarm system adds an extra layer of protection against would-be thieves. There are a variety of car security systems available on the market today. The type that is right for you will depend on the type of vehicle you own and your personal security needs. Best of all, car alarm installation services are very affordable and well worth the extra costs.
Park in Good Location
Car thieves are most likely to target vehicles that are located in dark, low-traffic areas. This makes it very important to try to park in a well-lit area, whenever possible. If your parking space at home is dark, you should consider installing a lamppost or security lights. This extra security feature will help to deter some criminals.
These tips can protect your important assets and reduce your risk of auto theft. When looking to install a new car alarm system, be sure to work with an experienced and reputable company, like Auto Acoustics. They offer a wide range of car alarm systems, many of which include various monitoring features. Their knowledgeable technicians can customize a security system for your vehicle, or vehicles, to best meet your specific needs.
*This article was contributed.
