Ten Keys To Prevent Auto Theft

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Over 57,000 motor vehicles are registered on the UCF campus. The UCF Police Department and other area law enforcement agencies do everything in their collective power to prevent motor vehicle thefts and catch the thieves once a vehicle has been stolen. But the main weapon all of us have to stop this crime is ourselves. Brochure (The brochure this refers to has been updated see Auto Theft-Burlary.pub in this folder)

Following are 10 "keys" that will help you protect your vehicle against theft.

  1. Always lock your car when you park it, and remove your keys.
  2. Lock valuables in your trunk and do not leave personal ID cards or credits cards in the vehicle.
  3. Never leave your vehicle running while unattended.
  4. Install an anti-theft device that is highly visible, hard to defeat, and that renders the car un-drivable.
  5. Photocopy your registration and insurance card and keep them in your wallet - not in your glove compartment.
  6. Park in a garage, if possible. If not possible, then park in a well lit, heavily traveled area.
  7. When parking curbside, turn your wheels sharply into the curve, apply the emergency brake.
  8. Do not hide spare keys.
  9. Always be observant for carjackers, particularly when stopping or traveling in "dangerous" or poorly lit areas. Use your car horn as a deterrent.
  10. Do not give your full set of keys to a valet. Many vehicles now come with a valet key; use it.