Common Sense or Not?

Security is not always just for your home or your business it extends to all parts of your lives. Common sense is not always that commonly used. More often than not when I am walking up the driveways to my clients I notice vehicles unsecured or electronics just laying on the seats. I am arriving at their premises to provide Security but they have forgotten about their vehicles. Why is it that we forget our common sense when we lock our front door?

Below are some tips you can use to avoid being the victim of vehicle theft:
• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out of sight, or better yet bring them inside.
• Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas, when possible.
• Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes. These devices are a visible deterent.
• Investigate the purchase of a vehicle theft tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently stolen model vehicles.
• Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership title, or credit cards in your vehicle.
• If you must leave your key with a valet, attendant, or mechanic leave only the ignition key. Make sure you are dealing with a reputable firm.
• In high theft areas the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should be etched on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid. This makes it difficult for a thief to market your stolen car parts ("chop shop").
• Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you. If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to take a report.
• Many vehicles today come with some type of security system from the factory. Normally there are upgraded systems available if you ask. The best choice are systems that shut off the fuel supply so that a car can't be started or driven.
• Keep your home address information on your vehicle insurance papers blacked out.
• Program your GPS to the nearest local Police Station not your home, that way if your vehicle is stolen the GPS will not lead the bad guys straight to your house.
• If you have a RV be sure to use a device that prohibits anyone from them hitching it to their vehicle and driving away.
• Do not store expensive electronics in your RV.

For this and more security tips please contact Kelly Lynn Wicks of Atlas Alarms Ltd. at kellywicks@atlasalarms.com