Make Your Car Tough to Steal!
Most importantly, BE ALERT – if you see someone or something that looks suspicious, call the police.
To register for the Watch Your Car Program, or to find out about our next VIN Etching event, contact the Peoria Police Department’s Community Relations Section at (623) 773-7099.
The Peoria Police Department, in conjunction with the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority, recommends these four layers of protection - the more you have, the tougher it is for a bad guy to steal your car:
Layer 1: Common Sense
Lock your car – half of all vehicles stolen are left unlocked.
Take your keys – nearly 20% of all vehicles stolen have the keys in them.
Park in well-lighted areas – car thefts occur at night more than half the time.
Park in attended lots – car thieves do not like witnesses.
Don’t leave your car running, even for a minute – convenience stores, gas stations, and ATMs are common hunting grounds for thieves.
Do not hide a spare key in the car – pros know where to look.
If you have a garage, use it – and when you do, lock both the car and the garage door
Completely close your car windows & Do not leave valuables in plain sight
Layer 2: Visible and Audible Deterrents
Audible Alarms
Steering wheel locks
Tire/Wheel locks
Park with wheels turned toward the curb
Window Etching – etch vehicle identification number (VIN) on vehicle windows
Theft deterrent decals – such as the AATA’s Watch Your Car Program
Layer 3: Vehicle Immobilizers
Smart Keys
Fuse cut-offs
Kill switches
Starter, ignition, and fuel disablers
High security locks and keys
Layer 4: Tracking Systems
A vehicle tracking system is a high-tech device designed to be hidden in your vehicle in order to emit a signal that the police can monitor if you report a theft.
