In Your Car

• Always lock your car and take the keys, even if you’ll be gone only a short time.
• Keep your car in good running condition, and keep the tank at least one-quarter full; Lock doors while driving.
• If your car breaks down, raise the hood and place emergency reflectors or flares. Then stay in the locked car. When someone stops to help, don’t get out. Ask him or her, through a closed or cracked window, to telephone the police to come and help.
• If you’re coming or going after dark, park in a well-lit area that will still be well-lit when you return.
• Be especially alert when using enclosed parking garages. Don’t walk into an area if you feel uncomfortable.
• Leave only your ignition key with a parking attendant. Don’t leave your house key, garage door opener, or other important items in your car.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• Control your keys. Never leave an identification tag on your key ring. If your keys are lost or stolen, it could help a thief locate your car and burglarize your home.
• If carrying packages or valuable items, store them in your trunk. If you do leave packages, clothing or other articles in the car; make sure they are out of sight.
• Keep your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and a complete description in a safe place at home. Since 1969, the federal government has required manufactures to engrave a unique number, the VIN, on all passenger cars in one visible and several hidden locations. One VIN is engraved on a metal plate on the dashboard near the windshield. VIN’s of stolen cars are registered with the FBI’s National Crime Information Center.
• License plates frequently are stolen from cars used in other crimes. Get in the habit of checking your plates when you drive. A few drops of solder on the bolts or blurring the threads can help safeguard your plates.
• Keep the following information in a safe location: Year; Make; Model; Color; Id# or VIN; License #, Identifying Marks; Insurance Co.; and policy #