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Holiday Auto Burglary and Theft Prevention Tips

9/23/2009

With the holiday season approaching, Sheriff Adrian Garcia and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Auto Theft Unit wish to assist citizens in an effort to prevent auto theft and burglary by providing simple tips to deter thieves. Criminals are on the look out for victims that appear vulnerable and are unaware of their surroundings. Shopping and preparing for special occasions can be distracting to citizens which make them a perfect candidate for victimization. Just taking the time to implement a few of these tips can make the difference between preventing theft/burglary and becoming a statistic.  
 
Local law enforcement agencies and the Texas Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority are working together to deter and reduce theft throughout the cities and counties of the State of Texas. Auto thefts and burglaries result in higher insurance rates for all citizens, and a stolen vehicle may also be used to commit future crimes. With that in mind, everyone must be ever vigilant in practicing personal safety measures and implement simple steps to avoid losing a very valuable asset, your vehicle. Vehicle thefts and burglaries most often occur in residential areas, mall parking lots, fitness and daycare centers, and movie theatres.  
 
Several steps that you can take to help prevent vehicle burglary or theft in your community are to hide your belongings out of view, lock your vehicle and always take your keys, even if you are going to be away from your vehicle for just a few moments. Most citizens are unaware that in the State of Texas, it is against the law to leave your keys in the ignition when leaving your vehicle. This can result in a fine, and your insurance company may refuse to pay a loss claim that resulted from a thief having easy access. In regards to your personal safety, you must be observant of anything or anyone that appears strange or unusual. If your instincts tell you that there is impending danger, make sure that you avoid it at all costs.  
 
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to report that auto theft in 2008 was reduced by approximately 18% from 2007, and in the month of December 2008 14% fewer thefts occurred than in December 2007. To receive a complete list, call the Texas Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority’s toll free number 1-800-CAR-WATCH, or go to www.hcso.hctx.net to learn more about the Harris County Sheriff’s Office’s resources and many crime prevention tips. The Auto Theft Unit is pleased to offer auto theft and burglary prevention presentations to civic groups and businesses. If you are interested in scheduling a presentation, please call Deputy Sandy Johnson at 281-446-4399. Have a wonderful and SAFE holiday season!  
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