Motor Vehicle Theft / Larceny from Autos / Carjacking Prevention Tips

 

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of motor vehicle theft:

  • Never leave your vehicle unattended with the keys inside it.
  • Whether in the vehicle or not keep the doors locked at all times.
  • Never leave the vehicle unattended while the engine is running.  (While warming it up on cold days, stepping into a convenience store, etc.)
  • Have more than one way to secure your vehicle, such as an alarm system or a device to lock your steering wheel or pedals.
  • Keep a copy of your registration in your wallet or purse, in-case your vehicle is stolen the vehicle info will be available to police.
  • Never keep your vehicle title in the vehicle. It should be kept in a secure safe place.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of larceny from auto:

  • Never leave anything in plain view inside the passenger compartment (such as shopping packages, CD’s, purses, cell phones, GPS devices, etc.)

  • Place valuables in the trunk while you are out shopping.

  • Report all suspicious activity.

  • Park in well lit areas.

  • Utilize store security or management to walk you to your car – this puts additional eyes and ears in the parking lot to prevent criminal behavior.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of carjacking:

  • Be constantly aware of your surroundings

  • Be aware of who may be watching you.

  • Keep doors locked and widows up.

  • Don’t stop to help broke down motorist. Notify local authorities, to help.

  • While stopped at red lights, leave room you and the vehicle in front, as an escape route (you should be able to see the bottom of the tires of the vehicle in front of you)

  • Be suspicious of anyone approaching your vehicle. If your vehicle is struck from behind, stay in it with the doors locked until police arrive.

  • If you feel you are being followed, drive to an area with lots of people and lights and call 911.

 

5623 Two Notch Road 
Columbia, South Carolina 29223 
(803) 576-3000 phone (803) 576-3195 fax
sheriff@rcsd.net

Copyright © 2006 Richland County Sheriff's Department