In many ways, your car is an extension of your home. You carry goods with you that you’ll need for a day at the office, at the store, or at the beach. It safely transports you from point A to point B and everywhere in between. That’s why a car break-in can be so disorienting and distressing. Indeed, one of the most common forms of larceny in the United States is a car break-in.
While there is no perfect way to deter thieves from breaking into your car in the Woodlands, Affordable Locksmith in Texas is here with steps you can take to make your car a less appetizing target.
Secure Your Vehicle
Perhaps surprisingly, the majority of car break-ins occur because the targeted car was left unlocked in the first place. No matter where your car is parked, it’s important to lock your car doors. It’s not uncommon for thieves to walk down a crowded street, lined with cars, and try every door that they pass to see if they can gain easy entry into a vehicle. By locking your doors, you are deterring a thief from trying to break into your car, even if there are valuables on display.
Next, take the time to roll your car windows up before you leave. If your car has an alarm, it’s always a good idea to engage that before leaving your car for an extended period. While these might not keep a thief from breaking in, it could slow them down, and make them think twice.
Protect Your Valuables
We’ve all seen the signs at the store or theater that says the business is not responsible for lost or stolen goods taken from your car. That’s why it’s important to protect the valuables in your car. Never leave any electronics, wallets, bags, or purses in your car even if you’re just making a grocery run. Thieves need only seconds to smash your window, grab your valuables and dash away. Thieves are drawn to items that are obviously displayed on the seats, dash, and trunk of your car. If you have to leave them, do your best to cover them, and make them less visible from the windows of your vehicle. Put your valuables in the foot well of the back seat, and cover them with a blanket or towel to better hide them.
Don’t Leave Money In Your Car
Many of us have that drink holder full of loose change for toll roads and parking spaces. It’s convenient for use, and a great place to get all that change out of your pockets or purse. But it’s also inviting thieves to break into your vehicle. Leaving money of any kind visible in your car is one of the most sure-fire ways to have your car broken into. It is important that you do not leave any bills, or credit cards in your car while you are away from it. If a thief were to steal your credit card, not only would you have to worry about the financial impact, but you may be the victim of identity theft at a later date.
Be Aware Of Where You Park
Sometimes parking is something we do not get to choose, especially in the case of busy sporting events or popular shopping areas. But when you do have the choice, be conscious of where you park your car. Avoid parking in areas that are isolated from homes and business, and that are poorly lit. While trees can provide your car shade in the summer, shrubs and bushes provide potential thieves concealment from watchful eyes. The best parking spots are in busy areas that are well-lit and are not obscured from line of site by larger vehicles, fences, or vegetation.
Keep Track Of Your Keys
Of course, if you’ve locked your keys in your car in the Woodlands, there’s no need to break into your own vehicle. Call the auto locksmiths at Affordable Locksmith Texas! Whether it’s in a vacant parking lot at midnight, or just in your driveway, we’ll get you back into your car in no time flat. We respond to all auto locksmith calls within 15 minutes, so you can get back on the road ASAP! Our auto locksmiths will work carefully, and thoroughly to ensure that they never damage your car. It’s how we help keep you and your vehicle safe!