We have added new safety graphics that you can download and post on Neighbors to educate residents about vehicle theft prevention and what to do if you are a victim.
Quick Links:
Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention
Sample message:
“A catalytic converter is a critical component of your car’s exhaust system and can cost up to $4,000 to replace. Thieves target it because it contains expensive metals, has a street value of up to $250, and removal can take less than 1 minute.
Theft Prevention Tips
- Park in a garage or a well-lit area
- Engrave your VIN number into your catalytic converter
- Install a catalytic converter protection device
- Have extra metal welded to your exhaust system, which makes it difficult to remove"
Source: Allstate
Vehicle Theft Victims - What To Do
Sample message:
"If you are a victim of vehicle theft, follow these steps:
- Contact police immediately to file a stolen-vehicle report. You will need a copy of the police report and/or a case number to provide to your insurance company. You may also be asked to provide the following information: License plate number; make, model, and color of your vehicle; and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and any identifying characteristics.
- Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours of your vehicle being stolen.
If you find your vehicle before authorities do, contact the police and your insurance company immediately."
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Protect Your Ride
Sample message:
"Vehicle theft is a very expensive crime, with the cost of stolen vehicles pegged at more than $6 billion. Avoid being a victim by taking these simple steps to prevent it."
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Vehicle Recovery
Sample message:
"There are numerous anti-theft devices designed to make vehicles more difficult to steal or easier to trace and recover. Here are how some of them to consider:
- Audible and Visible Devices: These devices, such as a horn alarm, deter theft by bringing attention to an unauthorized attempt to steal or enter a vehicle. Visible devices create a visual threat/warning/deterrence, such as the use of steering-wheel locks, as well as theft-deterrent decals, flashing lights, and window etching.
- Immobilizing-Type Devices: These prevent thieves from bypassing a vehicle’s ignition system and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some incorporate computer chips in ignition keys or disable the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine.
- Vehicle Recovery Systems: These devices use electronic transmission technology that help law enforcement reveal the location of stolen vehicles—and possibly catch the thief in the act."
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Prevent Vehicle Theft
Sample message:
"A motor vehicle was stolen every 43.8 seconds in the United States. Be sure to take care when parking and exiting your vehicle:
- Take your vehicle's key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle.
- Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
- Park in well-lit areas if possible.
- Never leave valuables in your vehicle, especially if they can be seen from outside the vehicle."
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
Warm Up Thefts
Sample message:
“Keep your vehicle safe and remember to lock your doors if you are tempted to warm them up prior to leaving.”
Vehicle Theft
Sample message:
"If it’s visible in your vehicle, there’s a risk it could be stolen. Make sure you keep the property inside your vehicle hidden, such as cell phones, phone chargers, and other electronics.”
Source: United States Department of Transportation
Lock it. Hide It. Keep It.
Download
Sample message:
"Don’t be a part of this statistic: Over 770,000 drivers fall victim to vehicle theft each year. It’s a good time to remind yourself of a few simple, yet important tips to prevent your car from being stolen." Source: National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration