Aside from the Independence Day celebrations and grilling out in the hot summer sun, July is also known for being National Vehicle Theft Protection Month, as promoted by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). It may be surprising to learn how often carjacking occurs, yet according to the NICB, most car theft occurs during the warm months of July and August. Contrary to what most of us think, it doesn’t always happen at night or in secluded areas. So when does vehicle theft occur? Most incidents happen in big cities and busy parking lots, making it crucial to always be aware of your surroundings.
Keep these 10 important steps in mind to take the necessary precautions to protect you and your vehicle this summer:
- Always lock your doors. Drive with the windows up and doors locked
- Always have your keys out when approaching your vehicle so you can be aware of your surroundings
- Check around inside your car before getting in
- Never sit in your car while it’s parked
- Never leave your car running
- Don’t leave items such as cash, electronics or purses in view when parked
- Never leave a second set of keys anywhere in or on your car
- Park with your wheels turned toward the curb, even in driveways or parking lots, making your car difficult to tow
- Keep your insurance, registration and license in your wallet – not in the glove compartment
- Activate any theft prevention devices when vacating your car, and consider a vehicle tracking system to help make it easier to recover a stolen vehicle
