Vehicle Theft Protection

Some car tips we've complied to keep you and your auto just a little bit safer...

• When buying a used car from an individual or a dealer, make sure you have the proper titles, and that the VIN number is still intact. The federal sticker on the inside of the driver's door should match the VIN.

• Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you're away from it. This seems obvious, but many people pull up to their driveways and unload groceries or help their elderly/infirm passengers into or out of their car, while leaving the engine on for 'convenience'. This creates a crime of opportunity for thieves.
  
• Always roll up the windows and lock the car. Don't be tempted to leave the windows open 'just a crack' for ventilation. That's all it takes for a thief to pry open the doors using a coat hanger.

• Park in busy, well lit areas. With new developments being built in the neighbourhood, we are quickly running out of safe (read: well lit) street parking. Consider renting an extra space in your underground parkade. The extra $30 or so per month could be well worth the safety and peace of mind, knowing that your car is harder for the thieves to get to.

• Carry the registration and insurance card with you. That way, if someone breaks into your car, they won't find out where you live. If it isn't practical for you to carry your insurance documents with you, consider putting your business address or a PO Box number on your insurance documentation.

• Look into CAT (Combat Auto Theft) partnership programs where individuals voluntarily register their cars with the police, and allow the police to stop the car during certain hours when they normally would not be driving. Contact ICBC or your autoplan agent for details on registering and to get a CAT sticker.

• Etch the VIN number on windows, doors, fenders and trunk lid. This helps discourage professional thieves who would have to either remove or replace etched parts before selling the car.

• Be especially alert at intersections, gas stations, ATMs, shopping malls, convenience and grocery stores - all are windows of opportunity for carjackers since you are, in essence, a captive audience. This isn't East LA but we do have a growing number of "squeegee people" that can get aggressive when you don't give them money at intersections. Just something to keep in mind...

• Beware of the "bump-and-rob," which is when a driver bumps you in traffic, and has a passenger steal your car when you get out to check the damage.

• Before getting in your car, make sure to look inside the car. Fortunately Edmonds hasn't been hit with the homeless problems that the Downtown Eastside faces, but many homeless people do break into cars or check for unlocked doors and sleep inside in order to shelter themselves from the elements. Obviously there are drug and/or mental health issues at play here, but don't get caught offguard. Checking the interior of your car is a good habit to get into if you travel throughtout the lower mainland.