Preventing Auto Theft

The City of Palm Springs, compared to last year's crime statistics, has had a reduction in overall violent crime; however property crimes have slightly increased. The State of California is also experiencing similar crime trends. There are many reasons for crime; changing population demographics, the economy, social policy towards drug addicts, the responsiveness of our community and the actions of law enforcement. Your police officers are hard-working individuals, dedicated to your safety and to improving the quality of life for our community. However, the police department cannot do it alone, we must rely on community involvement to help us combat crime. The purpose of the article is to ask for your help in reducing property crimes in our community by following these crime prevention tips to reduce your chances of being victimized.

Criminals are essentially lazy people; they look for easy targets of opportunity. As a general rule, property left unattended in a vulnerable situation is a prime target for criminals. The following are prevention ideas regarding thefts from cars.

• Remove visible items from your vehicle. If you leave items visible in your car, you are a target. Be aware that someone may be watching as you put a wallet, purse, or cell phone under your seat, especially at a gym. Take these with you or secure them in your trunk.
• Lock Up!
  
  • Lock your vehicle and take your keys, even for quick errands.
  • Lock the trunk, hatchback or tailgate to block access into the car.
  • Close all windows, including vent or wing windows and sunroofs.
• Vehicle alarms - Buy an alarm and use it! Many people believe that alarms no longer make a difference, however, they do remain an effective deterrent to a burglar. Remember criminals are looking for the easy target.
• Vehicle Registration - Black out the address on your registration and photocopy it. Keep the copy, not the original, in your car. You must have the registration available to present to a police officer upon request.
• Do not attach personal information to your keys - If your keys are stolen, having your personal information or vehicle license number attached only compounds the problem. A criminal now may have access to your home, automobile or office.
• Mail - Do not leave outgoing or incoming mail in your car, especially where visible. This has your name and address on it and once again the criminal has more information about you.
• Garage Door Opener - Avoid leaving this in your car if possible.
• Keys - Never leave keys in your car.
• Park Safely!
  
  • At home, park in your garage if you have one. Lock your car and all garage doors.
  • Park in a well-lit area.
  • Check to see that your vehicle is visible from pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

The Palm Springs Police Department is committed to the philosophy of community policing. Community policing is effective when citizens become involved. I encourage you to learn about us by attending the Citizens Police Academy, form neighborhood watch programs and stay alert to crime. If you are interested in attending our citizen’s police academy or desire information on forming neighborhood watch, contact Sgt Mark Stafford or (760) 323-8115.