Mountlake Terrace Police offers tips to discourage vehicle prowls

MLT police shieldVehicle prowls continue to be a major issue for Mountlake Terrace residents and people across the country.

Most of these crimes are crimes of opportunity through unlocked doors and open windows where victims usually encounter expensive vehicle damage — especially to their windows, doors and locks.

Large parking locations like shopping centers, housing communities, parks and schools are prime targets for a prowler since multiple vehicles can be hit in a short time span. Also, prowlers know the odds are good that someone will leave a door unlocked, a window down or keys in the ignition. Unfortunately, vehicle prowls are very common. Luckily, they are preventable.

The Mountlake Terrace Police Department offers these these easy and inexpensive tips to reduce your risk of becoming a victim of vehicle prowl:

Anti-Theft Devices:
â—Š Steering wheel locking devices are easy to install and inexpensive
â—Š Car alarms are convenient and effective – Especially if they disable the vehicle’s starter when activated
â—Š Install switches to interrupt the fuel supply or electrical systems
â—Š Locking gas caps deters fuel from being siphoned

Remove These Items:
â—Š Cameras
â—Š CD player and CD’s
â—Š Cell phones
â—Š Checkbooks
â—Š Clothing
â—Š Credit/debit, gift cards
â—Š Day planner
â—Š Electronic devices
â—Š Garage door opener
â—Š GPS unit
â—Š Jewelry
â—Š Keys
â—Š Laptop
â—Š Luggage or bags
â—Š Mail
â—Š Purses
â—Š Receipts/statements
â—Š Store bags or packages
â—Š Tools
â—Š Vehicle insurance, title and registration information
â—Š Wallets

Parking & Securing Your Vehicle:
â—Š Use a garage or secure location whenever possible
â—Š Park in well-lit areas where your car can be seen
â—Š Avoid isolated areas. Park near locations frequently used by pedestrians
â—Š If you hear something suspicious (shattering glass) or see someone looking into vehicles, call 911
â—Š Roll up the windows and lock all doors
â—Š Secure the trunk, hatches, bed-mounted tool boxes, and canopies
â—Š Activate your alarm
â—Š Install anti-theft devices

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