Prevent Auto Theft

With the weather turning colder, it is an all too common practice for people to leave their vehicles running and unlocked to warm them up. What is also a common result of this action is the vehicle being stolen. There have already been a few incidents in the city of Racine where vehicles have been started to warm up and were stolen when the owners left them unattended and unlocked.

You can protect your vehicle while warming it up if you practice the following crime prevention techniques:

• Do not leave your vehicle unattended.Your vehicle only needs to run long enough to warm the oil and begin the circulation process. This normally takes approximately one minute. While your vehicle is running, stay with it or keep it in sight.
• Do not leave your vehicle unlocked.If you need to leave your vehicle unattended, even for a minute, lock the doors. Keep a door key or electronic door opener with you. Break-apart key rings are available that allow you to easily leave the ignition key in the vehicle while taking your other keys with you.
• Invest in a quality remote startA quality remote starter allows you to start your vehicle while not leaving the key in the vehicle or leaving the vehicle unlocked. A good unit will also kill the engine when a door is opened, or the brake pedal is pressed. Some units also allow two way communication with the key fob alerting the owner of break in attempts.
• Do not leave your vehicle title inside the vehicle.Paperwork such as your vehicle registration and insurance policy information should be kept in the vehicle at all times, but your vehicle title should never be left inside. Keep your vehicle title in a safe place along with your other important documents.

If your vehicle is stolen, call the police immediately to report the theft. The faster the police are notified about the theft, the better the chances your vehicle will be recovered quickly and without damage. Be prepared to provide information about your vehicle such as license plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), color and any unique characteristics of your vehicle.

For more information, or to request a guest speaker on crime prevention, contact the Public Information Officer at (262)635-7772, or use the
Ask an Officer web form.