According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, New Year’s Day is the holiday with the highest number of auto thefts of all holidays. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day also experience an increase in vehicle thefts.
MAKE IT DIFFICULT for thieves to gain access to your vehicle. Always keep it LOCKED and keep shopping bags, laptops, purses, and cell phones out of sight.
Consider using an anti-theft device such as a steering wheel lock or an electronic tracking system that uses GPS to help police find your car if it has been stolen.
Even a baby monitor that is wireless and has night vision can help deter criminals. If there is a visible video camera in the car, most car thieves will refrain from stealing it. If it is stolen, there will be video footage to help authorities recover it.
According to the U.S. Dept. of Transportation (NHTSA):
Nationally, nearly 41% of stolen vehicles are NEVER RECOVERED.
Keep your vehicle and belongings safe this holiday season!
For further information or questions regarding vehicle theft prevention call West Grand Neighborhood Organization at 616-451-0150 or e-mail the West Grand Neighborhood Organization ATPA Program Coordinator at ATPA@westgrand.org
Funds for this program are provided by the Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority.