EDITORIAL: We can do more to stop auto break-ins

Published 1:30 pm Saturday, March 16, 2024

A rash of auto break-ins and vehicle thefts have hit the community of late. An added concern is the number of vehicle break-ins that have involved the theft of guns from unlocked vehicles. That’s a major issue. 

College students and apartment complexes are the most frequent reported targets.

In some of those cases, the vehicle owners left the keys inside the ignition, making it easier for the thieves to simply start it and drive off.

Many tips to keep your vehicle from being stolen seem like common sense: lock you car doors, keep valuables from being visible inside your vehicle, try to park in well-lit areas, don’t leave your engine running unattended, etc.

But unfortunately, many don’t follow these rules, whether it’s because of a false sense of security, forgetfulness or happenstance.

Although the number of such thefts is concerning to authorities because the majority of them could be prevented, what’s more concerning is the number of guns being stolen from vehicles. This is especially dangerous and gun owners need to be mindful of leaving their weapons in unlocked vehicles.

It’s dangerous and impractical and it’s just not safe. 

The National Crime Prevention Council reports that vehicle theft is usually a “crime of opportunity.”

“Auto theft can happen fast,” the council said on its website. “An unoccupied car, with its engine left running by the owner, can be stolen in a matter of seconds. No geographic area or make or model of car is immune to theft.”

The National Crime Prevention Council offers these tips to keep your vehicle safe from being stolen:

• Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you’re away from it, even for “just a minute.”

• Always roll up the windows and lock the car, even if it’s in front of your home.

• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or at least out of sight. Buy radios and tape and CD players that can be removed and locked in the trunk.

• Park in busy, well-lighted areas.

• Carry the registration and insurance card with you. Don’t leave personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle.

• When you pay to park in a lot or garage, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no personal information is attached. Do the same when you take your car for repairs.

• Install a mechanical locking device — commonly called clubs, collars or j-bars — that locks to the steering wheel, column or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more than a few degrees.

• Investigate security systems if you live in a high-theft area or drive an automobile that’s an attractive target for thieves. You may get a discount on your auto insurance.

Drivers: Lock your doors. Don’t leave valuables inside your vehicle, or if you must, place them out of view. 

Don’t become a victim to this crime of opportunity.