Capitol West Neighborhood Association

Preventing Vehicle Theft

Please take the time to review these tips on preventing vehicle theft. Not all of the suggestions may be practical. You be the judge of what you think is appropriate.

--Never leave your vehicle running unattended

--Always roll the windows up and lock the doors, even if parked at home.

--Install tapered door lock buttons.  Discard the ones with the lips on thsm. This will prevent opening of your doors with a coat hanger or similar device.

--Never leave anyhting of value in the auto.  This includes even the smallest amount of change.

--Never hide akey on our under the vehicle.  Theives will take the time to try and locate "hidden" keys.

--Park in bus and well-lit spots.

--Install an ingnition kill or cutout switch in a hidden location.

--Use a mechanical steering wheel locking device.

--Consider a vehicle monitoring and tracking system.

--If installing an alarm or tracking system, display the provided stickers on your vehicle.

--If you have recently purchased a used vehicle, especially from a private party, consider changing the ignition switch.

As always, practicing the above tips will not guaranttee that one will not be the victim of a crime.  However, the chances of somone becoming a victim will be lowered.