How to keep your car safe

Lately the news and social media have daily stories of car break-ins and thefts. The Rochester Police Department and Monroe County Sheriff’s Office have compiled a list of reminders and tips to keep your valuables safe.

·         Be aware of the surroundings. Park in a well-lit area and look around for suspicious individuals.

·         If you have a garage, park inside and lock the vehicle and garage doors.

·         Get into the habit of placing valuables like laptops, cell phones, packages, wallets, and purses in the trunk or covered hatch of the vehicle, out of sight; if possible, do this as you get IN to the car before leaving for your next location. Possessions or cash on a visible console or seat is an invitation to break in.

·         Do not keep your keys, driver’s license, and registration in the vehicle. Thieves can 1. use them to sell your car; 2. use them to impersonate you if stopped by the police; 3. use the keys to get into your house; 4. use the ID information for identity theft. 

·         When shopping, purchase small items first that can either remain with you or be placed in the trunk/covered hatch. If the largest item doesn’t fit in the trunk and would be visible from the outside, you should try to purchase it last.

·         In your neighborhood or a parking lot, if you see one or more individuals looking into car windows or checking doors, report them to store security or call the police.

·         If you see someone breaking a window or a suspicious person taking items from a vehicle, report him/her to the police.

In addition, Kia and Hyundai owners are most vulnerable to car theft thanks to a social media video. The car companies each have a stolen vehicle recovery system that can be enabled remotely. Models produced in 2016 or later, along with some earlier models are equipped with Kia Connect and Hyundai BlueLink, respectively.

Kia owners can check this link, https://owners.kia.com/content/owners/en/kia-svr.html, to see if their cars have the capability.  Hyundai owners should contact a Hyundai dealer or check the Hyundai app for more information.