YOU CAN PREVENT VEHICLE THEFT!
Auto thieves are everywhere and are looking to take your car! Don't be
their next victim.
Amateurs who can be stopped fairly easily take most cars. You can increase
your protection against this type of crime by taking the following sensible
precautions:
Lock up
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An unlocked car is an open invitation to a car thief. Lock up
when you leave your car, and take the keys with you. |
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Lock the trunk or tailgate. |
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Close all windows - professional thieves have tools that unlock
cars through the smallest openings. |
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Be sure vent or wind-wing windows are shut tight. |
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When you park your vehicle remove all valuables from view, such
as, cellular phones, iPod's and other valuable possessions. Do not
leave gift-wrapped packages or cameras lying on the seat. Lock all
valuables in your trunk or take them with you. |
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Lock your car even if you are making a quick stop at the gas
station, convenience store or mini-mall. |
Park carefully
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Don't leave an auto in unattended public parking lots for an
extended period. A car is five times more likely to be stolen from
an unattended lot than from the street or attended lot. |
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If possible, park your car in a lot where you don't have to
leave your keys. |
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Never attach a tag with your name and address to your key ring.
If the keys are lost or stolen, the tag with lead the thief directly
to your car and your home. If you have to leave your keys with a
parking attendant, leave only the ignition key. |
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At night, park in well-lit areas with lots of people around. |
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Turn wheels sharply toward the curb when parking, this makes
it extra difficult for thieves to tow your car.
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Operation I.D.
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With an electric engraver, etch your driver's license number
(preceded by the letters "CA") on cassette players and other valuable
items. |
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Record your vehicle identification number (located on a small
metal plate on the dashboard of newer cars) and store it in a safe
place. |
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Keep the vehicle registration in your wallet or purse, not in
your car.
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Use anti-theft devices
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When buying a car, check the manufacturer's list of anti-theft
options, such as interior hood and trunk releases, locking steering
columns and others. |
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Consider the purchase and installation of security devices, such as:
>>> Interior hood lock release.
>>> Second ignition switch or "kill switch" to prevent electrical
current from reaching the coil distributor.
>>> Fuel switch to prevent fuel from reaching the carburetor.
>>> Locking gas cap.
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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY POLICE STATION,
COMMUNITY RELATIONS OFFICE AT (213) 485-4316
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