Kentwood Police Department
Crime Prevention Tips

Simple Ways to Avoid Auto Theft

• Take your keys.  One out of every five vehicles stolen had the keys in it.
• Lock your car.  Approximately half of all vehicles stolen were left unlocked.
• Never hide a second set of keys in your car.  Extra keys can easily be found if a thief takes time to look.
• Park in well-lighted areas.
• Park in attended lots.  Auto thieves do not like witnesses and prefer unattended parking lots.
• If you park in an attended lot, leave only the ignition/door key.  If your trunk and glove box use the same key as the door, have one of them changed.  Don't give the attendant easy access to your glove box and trunk.  Upon returning, check the tires, spare tire and battery to insure they are the same as those you had when you parked.
• Never leave your car running, even if you'll only be gone for a minute.  Vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, ATM's, etc.  Many vehicles are also stolen on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up.
• Completely close car windows when parking.  Don't make it any easier for the thief to enter your vehicle.
• Don't leave valuables in plain view.  Don't make your car a more desirable target for thieves by leaving valuables in plain sight.