'Tis the season to be jolly, but it's also the season for car theft throughout the County and New Brunswick. Here are 5 ways to ensure the safety of your automobile.

According to some estimates from insurance companies, more then half of automobile break-in's are unfortunately perpetuated by car owners themselves.

If you're aware of what tempts the thieves to break into your car, then you can hopefully avoid a potential theft of your vehicle and its contents.

Here are 5 things to consider for vehicle safety:

  1. Ensure Your Windows Are Up: We would say 'rolled up' here, but most car windows are automatic. Having your windows in the up position help detour crooks from 'smashing and grabbing' things out of your car.
  2. Lock Your Car Doors: Whether you're going shopping for hours or just running into a convenience store for a quick trip, lock your car doors. It only takes a moment for a crook to enter a running car and take off in it.
  3. Smart Parking: You might have a 'SMART' car, but whether you do or not, you still want to be smart about where you park. Try to park your car in friendly neighborhoods, well-lit areas and parking lots and garages that are monitored by either a camera or a patrolman.
  4. Install An After Market Car Alarm: I know you're probably thinking that your car came with an alarm. Most factory car alarms only sound when the doors open. Many after-market car alarms have motion sensors with them so if someone is moving your vehicle in a potential break-in, the alarm will sound and run them off.
  5. Take Sensitive Items With You:  Avoid leaving your purse, Christmas presents, wallets, and any other sensitive items in the car. If you do, ensure that they are not visible from the outside.

Here's What To Do Should You Be A Victim Of A Break-In:

  • Call the police
  • Take photos
  • File a police report
  • Call your insurance company
  • Cancel any stolen credit cards immediately

We hope you have a safe and wonderful winter. Don't be the next victim of a car theft, especially if it could have been avoided.

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