4 Safety Tips from an Auto Shop!
It seems that these days, whether your car is parked at the mall or in your driveway, it is at risk for theft. There are ways you can make your car less appealing and more of a challenge to potential thieves so that they will pass it by when prowling around.
Here are four safety tips recommended by the National Insurance Crime Bureau:
- Parking lot tips -- Park in well-lit areas with a lot of foot traffic, such as the end of a row and near a light. Roll up the windows completely and lock the doors. Don’t leave spare keys outside of the car as thieves know where people typically hide them. Do not keep valuables, such as purses, wallets, cell phones, clothes, and even change, left in your car. If you park in a lot that has an attendant, just give them the ignition key. If possible, don’t stay parked in one spot too long.
- Visible devices and audible alarms -- Consider having your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched into your windows as it makes it harder for a thief to send it to a chop shop. A steering wheel lock is highly visible and will deter some thieves as well as loud alarms.
- Immobilizing devices -- These devices actually shut off your car's electrical or fuel supply. There is no way a thief can drive your car away unless they find a key or know where the hidden switch is located.
- Tracking devices -- Devices are now available that allow police to track your car.
Tip to Remember: Be observant of your surroundings, such as suspicious people and other vehicles, including license plate numbers. If you catch a thief in the act, don't approach the person but call 911. Your safety is more important than the car.
Want to know more about these safety tips from your auto shop? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Elk River Tire & Auto for information and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
It seems that these days, whether your car is parked at the mall or in your driveway, it is at risk for theft. There are ways you can make your car less appealing and more of a challenge to potential thieves so that they will pass it by when prowling around.
Here are four safety tips recommended by the National Insurance Crime Bureau:
- Parking lot tips -- Park in well-lit areas with a lot of foot traffic, such as the end of a row and near a light. Roll up the windows completely and lock the doors. Don’t leave spare keys outside of the car as thieves know where people typically hide them. Do not keep valuables, such as purses, wallets, cell phones, clothes, and even change, left in your car. If you park in a lot that has an attendant, just give them the ignition key. If possible, don’t stay parked in one spot too long.
- Visible devices and audible alarms -- Consider having your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched into your windows as it makes it harder for a thief to send it to a chop shop. A steering wheel lock is highly visible and will deter some thieves as well as loud alarms.
- Immobilizing devices -- These devices actually shut off your car's electrical or fuel supply. There is no way a thief can drive your car away unless they find a key or know where the hidden switch is located.
- Tracking devices -- Devices are now available that allow police to track your car.
Tip to Remember: Be observant of your surroundings, such as suspicious people and other vehicles, including license plate numbers. If you catch a thief in the act, don't approach the person but call 911. Your safety is more important than the car.
Want to know more about these safety tips from your auto shop? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Elk River Tire & Auto for information and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
