Preventing Auto Theft and Residential Burglary

Auto Theft
Taking precautionary measures can minimize your chances of becoming the victim of auto theft.  Here are some tips you can use to avoid being the victim of a car thief:

• Never leave your car unlocked, or running, even to dash into a business for just a second.
• Never leave keys in the car or ignition, inside a locked garage, or in hide-a-key boxes.
• Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home.
• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out-of-sight.
• Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas, when possible.
• Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes.
• Investigate the purchase of a vehicle theft tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently-stolen vehicles.
• Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership title, or credit cards in your vehicle.
• If you must leave your key with a valet, attendant, or mechanic, leave only the ignition key. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable firm.
• In high theft areas the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should be etched on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid. This makes it difficult for a thief to market your stolen car parts.
• Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you. If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to take a report.
• Many vehicles today come with some type of security system from the factory. Normally there are upgraded systems available if you ask. The best choices are systems that shut off the fuel supply so that a car can't be started or driven.
• If your vehicle is stolen, report it to the police immediately.

Residential Burglary
Follow these quick and easy tips to make your home less vulnerable to residential burglary:

• Trim all shrubbery so that it is at least six inches below the bottom of your windows
• Trim tree limbs so that they are at least eight feet off the ground, leaving a clear field of vision
• Use outside lighting in an efficient and appropriate manner by investing in timers and motion sensors
• You may need window treatment (blinds, curtain) to prevent someone from looking inside your home at night
• All exterior doors should be equipped with deadbolt locks with a minimum one-inch throw 
• Sliding glass doors should be equipped with secondary locks
• Always lock your doors and windows when leaving your house
• Repair or replace all broken or inoperative windows, doors lights and locks
• If you have an automatic garage door, make sure it closes securely when you leave your home
• Make sure you perform regular maintenance on our alarm
• Record the serial numbers of your valuables or mark them with your driver’s license number so that they can be identified if stolen
• Photograph your valuables, especially your jewelry
• Get to know your neighbors; they are your best defense and can only report suspicious activity when they know who or what doesn’t belong in the area
• Consider joining your local Neighborhood Crime Watch Association
• Report all suspicious activity to the Santa Barbara Police Department

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