July is Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

The Vehicle Theft Prevention Month is a public initiative aimed at sensitizing people about crucial the roles they have to play in preventing vehicle theft. Not only is vehicle theft a major security issue in the US, it is also a big source of economic drain. From available statistics, a motor vehicle was stolen in every 45 seconds in the United States in 2013 with an estimated total value of US$4.1 billion. It is also on record that almost half of all reported stolen vehicles are never recovered.

The main highlights of the program include public awareness on the need for vehicle theft and vehicle burglary prevention, radio and television public service announcements to sensitize people on the factors contributing to vehicle theft/burglary, and the production and dissemination of relevant educational and informational materials through seminars, workshops, and other applicable methods.

As the National Theft Prevention Month approaches, citizens are advised to take adequate precaution in ensuring that their cars are securely parked both in private and public car parks. This is because nearly 50% of stolen vehicles are as a result of driver error, especially in the case of passenger vehicles which constitute nearly 84% of vehicles stolen in the US.

Tips on How to Prevent Vehicle Theft or Burglary:

• Always keep your keys with you. Never leave them in or on your vehicle.
• Always park your car in the garage when possible.
• Always keep all windows and doors locked when leaving your vehicle.
• Never leave your vehicle with the engine running.
• Never leave valuables in your vehicles, especially where they can be spotted easily.
• Always park in well-lit areas.

To further protect your vehicle against theft and burglary, you can take the extra precaution of installing security devices in the vehicle. For the ways in which you can provide extra security for your vehicle, you can visit the (link no longer available) NHTSA website for suggestions.