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Car thefts and break-ins are a serious, but very common crime that many unfortunate people fall victim to.
Even if a thief isn’t brave enough to steal a car, they may be willing to take items from it. Prime targets inside vehicles include iPods, navigation systems and Esso cards.
Even if you hide the items, crooks may only need evidence of those items to make a move. Suction cups mounted to the window or charging cables strung across the center console can be motivation for fast-fingered opportunists. There are measures to take that can reduce the risk of a vehicle theft or break-in.
Always remember to lock all of the doors and close the windows, even if you are going to be parked for a very short time. Parking near the entrance of a building or in high-traffic areas is much safer than a dark and deserted parking area. If you have a small car, try to avoid parking next to large trucks and SUVs, which give thieves good cover from security cameras and passers-by.
Choose an open, visible space. Don’t leave any valuables in the car. Keep any loose objects in the trunk or in storage bins under the seat. A blanket covering things can be an obvious invitation for a break-in.
Never hide spare keys in or around the car. Experienced thieves know all the hiding places. If your vehicle does not already have one, get a locking gas cap. A locking gas cap helps prevent fuel siphoning and vandalism. Use a sound system with a detachable face or a sound system that can be removed completely from the vehicle.
Do not ever think your car is too old and worn to be the target of thieves. Most often, stolen cars are stripped for parts rather than for resale and the overall condition of the car makes little difference. The best protection against thieves is to park the vehicle in a secure, well lit area, lock the vehicle, and remove all valuables.
These are a few tips that will lessen the chances of your vehicle being broken into. If you are a victim of a vehicle break-in, immediately report it to security forces at 480-2050 on Ramstein or 489-6060 on Vogelweh.
(Courtesy of 569th U.S. Forces Police Squadron)
