Reminder: Keep Things Out Of Sight!

A friendly reminder from the MPD.

One of the most common types of theft is theft of valuables from your automobile. Theft from auto is strictly a crime of opportunity that can be prevented if you take away the opportunity. Thieves generally won't waste their time breaking into autos that don't have valuables in plain sight.

Recently, the Metropolitan Police Department has recorded an increase in thefts from autos, particularly in the downtown area around the Verizon Center during sporting and other events. If you plan on parking your car in this area, be sure to secure your property. Please take the precautions listed below to help ensure your auto is not targeted by theives:

   
• Keep Your Valuables Out of Sight
  
  The best way to prevent theft from your auto is to always keep valuables out of sight. Never leave cell phones, briefcases, suitcases, or electronic devices (walkmans, palm pilots, laptop computers, etc.) in your car in plain view. Take these items with you, or secure them-all the time, every time.

   
• Use Your Trunk
  
  If your car has a trunk, use it. Put valuables in there or in a locked glove compartment. Hiding items under seats is better than leaving them in plain view, but securing them inside the glove compartment or trunk is a far better deterrent.

   
• Don't Tempt Theives with New Purchases
  
  During the holiday season especially, or any time you're shopping, place packages in the trunk, not on the passenger seats or floors.

   
• Remove Your Radio Faceplate
  
  If you can unfasten your sound system and take it with you, or lock it in your trunk, do so. And don't forget to do the same with your CDs and tapes.

   
• Lock It Up
  
  Also, keep your car doors and windows locked-all the time!


Remember: "Outta sight, outta mind"-if theives can't see your valuables, they're less likely to waste their time targeting your auto. Take the time to secure your valuables; it makes a difference.