Tips for Securing Your Vehicle
We talk a lot about ensuring your home is safe and secure, but what about your vehicles? How can you protect them and what’s inside? These days, most cars come with their own alarm system. Unless you have a particularly older vehicle, most are equipped with at least an alarm sensor. What can you do, though, to protect your car even further? Sometimes, these alarms are just not enough.
Locks
It may seem as a no brainer, but always lock your doors! Even when you may just be running into another home or store quickly, go ahead and lock your doors. It just takes a thief a few seconds to get what he wants, much faster than your quick errand. If you don’t have automatic locks, reach behind and beside you and make sure all your doors are secured (don’t forget about trunks!).
Secure Contents
If you do have to store valuables in your car while you’re traveling or commuting, hide them. Put cell phones and other electronic devices in a storage compartment, out of sight. If you own an SUV or minivan where the contents of the trunk are visible, consider placing a blanket over them so as not to tempt any peepers. If you are going to purchase a valuable stereo for your vehicle, consider one with a removable faceplate that you can take in with you. Don’t leave anything visible that may make your car a prime target over the one parked next to you.
Parking Spot
If you have a garage, park there rather than your driveway or street. If you don’t have one or are away from home, park in a well-lit, high-traffic area. The more chance of a thief being seen, the less likely he is to attempt. This not only helps protect your vehicle, but it helps protect you, as well. If you’d like more information on personal safety when traveling, refer to our previous blog on how to get home safely.
As a general rule, as well, you should always make sure that your vehicle is inspected and well maintained. You don’t want your car left broken down and stranded somewhere, being left alone and vulnerable. For more information on securing your valuables, please reach out to us today!