The Delaware State Police continually investigate theft from motor vehicle complaints. Many of these thefts have occurred from unlocked cars that were left running to warm up during the chilly morning hours. These crimes have resulted in the loss of money, electronics, personal belongings of value, personal identification, and other items. These types of thefts are avoidable by simply taking the extra time to ensure that your car is locked while parked at work, gas stations, shopping centers, and your residence, especially while it is unattended and running. Delaware State Police want to share the importance of locking your car each and every time to combat this preventable trend.
The Delaware State Police are offering the following prevention and awareness tips:
- Always keep the doors of your unattended vehicles locked and the windows shut.
- Do not leave items of value in your vehicle. These items include purses, wallets, credit cards, electronics, checkbooks, money, Social Security cards, loose change, documents, and paperwork with your printed personal information.
- Store valuable tools inside your residence. If needed daily for work, create an easy system to load and unload, such as using storage containers to transport.
- Lock your glove box, which should only store your registration and insurance cards. Do not store your vehicle title in the glove box. Store it in a safe place in your residence.
- Clear the vehicle of all clutter and personal items. This can give the general impression that other property of value may be kept within the vehicle.
- Do not keep a spare vehicle key hidden in the same vehicle. Do not store house keys or other keys in your vehicle.
- If possible, keep your vehicle parked under a lighted area that you can check from your residence.
- If you have a surveillance security system at home, include your vehicle in the angle of your camera. If you locate a suspicious subject on your property or around your vehicle, do not confront them. Instead, call 9-1-1 immediately.
And finally, be a good witness for your neighbors, co-workers, and fellow citizens. Pay attention and be aware of what is going on in your neighborhood and other places that you frequent throughout the course of your day.
Avoid taking a false security mindset. These crimes happen in all communities across the region. Your address will not safeguard your property.
Should old acquaintance be forgot? Should all cold car doors be kept locked? Yes! Lock your doors each time, so you can safely and happily welcome the New Year!
