Alameda Police Offer Tips on Preventing Thefts from Vehicles

From the Alameda Police Department:

Recently there has been an .

They have occurred to vehicles parked in lots, parking garages, on the street and even to vehicles parked in driveways.

The one thing they all have in common is that valuables were left visible, making it an easy target for a thief.

Although there is nothing you can do to completely safeguard your vehicle from theft, there are several steps you can take to minimize your chances of being victimized.

PRACTICE “T.L.C.”

T - Take out Valuables. If you can leave valuables at home, do so. Otherwise place valuables in your trunk or take them with you.

L - Lock you vehicle at all times. Enough Said.

C - Close all windows. An open window allows a thief a quick and quiet way to enter your vehicle. Even a crack in the window makes the thief’s job so much easier.

The increase in auto burglaries is part of a national trend. The reason burglaries are so prolific is because people make it far too easy for a thief to gain access into a vehicle. Commonly stolen items are: Cell phones, GPS Devices, Lap-Top Computers, Money, FasTrak devices, gym bags, purses/briefcases, you name it...

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

You can often choose where you park your vehicle. Thieves are looking for vehicles they can enter with the least possibility of being seen.

DO NOT park where others cannot see your vehicle, such as behind buildings, large shrubs, large vehicles etc.

DO park in well lit areas.

DO park in visible locations.

Form a Neighborhood Watch Program, for more information email COPPS@ci.alameda.ca.us or call 510/-337-8305. If you witness suspicious activity call the Alameda Police Department 510/337-8340 and provide a detailed description. If it is an emergency, call 911.

For full details, view this message on the web.