(NC) You’ve likely heard that car thefts in Canada are high. In fact, according to one report a car is stolen in this country every five minutes. Here are four ways you can help avoid becoming the next victim of vehicle theft.
Follow basic precautions
Be sure to lock the doors and close all the windows whenever you leave the vehicle. If you have a key with a sensor that automatically locks when you walk away from the car, make sure it engages before you get too far away.
Never leave your vehicle unattended while it’s idling. Even if you just leave the car for a moment, always turn off the engine and lock the doors.
Never store a spare key inside or in a “hidden” compartment outside the car. Some thieves break into homes specifically to grab the car keys. So don’t leave yours hanging on a rack or other easy-to-spot location close to the front door.
Use aftermarket security devices
A steering wheel lock can be a surprisingly effective deterrent. Similar products lock onto one of the car’s tires to prevent it from being driven off.
While neither simple nor low-cost, some homeowners have gone to the extent of installing retractable bollards in the driveway to prevent thieves from stealing their vehicles.
Get high tech
Most newer cars come with a pre-installed alarm. Make sure the software is regularly updated. If your car doesn’t have an alarm, consider installing one that emits an audible sound. Some can also make the lights flash and send you notifications on your phone.
Consider installing an after-market tracking device so you can find your vehicle if it’s stolen. While these devices are well worth the investment, some insurance providers like Aviva will even help you get one installed for free or at a subsidized rate for high-risk vehicles.
Some thieves use devices that can pick up the signal from your car key and use that info to unlock and start your car. The farther from your car you store your key, the better. Better still, store your keys in a metal box or a “Faraday bag” that will prevent them from picking up the signal.
Find secure parking
If you can, park your car in a locked garage. If that’s not an option, try to park it in a well-lit area that has lots of foot traffic. If you are parking in a driveway, consider installing motion-activated lights and prominently placed security cameras that can act as something of a deterrent.
When parking away from home, seek out parking lots with an attendant on duty if possible. Hide any valuables inside the car so they’re not visible to smash-and-grab thieves.
Find more ways to protect your vehicle at: aviva.ca/vehiclelossprevention
