Recently the Fishers Police Department has investigated several incidents of thefts from vehicles. It appearsthieves are targeting vehicles parked outside of homes. Most vehicles haveitems of value visible from the outside. Chief of Police George Kehl would liketo remind citizens of a few simple safety tips that, if implemented, candecrease the potential of them becoming a victim.
1. Never leave your vehicle unsecured, even if you are only going tobe away from it for a short time. Thieves only need a few seconds to open anunlocked door and retrieve valuables that are left in plain sight.
2. Secure valuables in the trunk before leaving your vehicle. Thieves willoften take the time to look into windows before choosing a particular vehicleto break‐in. Unsecured items such as GPS devices, CD’s, computers, purses,cellular phones, audio systems, keys, and other items are often the targets ofa thief.
3. Be ALERT, check surroundings while parking. If you observe anyoneacting suspicious call 911.
4. Etch your driver’s license number on all items of value and that areremovable, e.g., audio equipment, computers, GPS devices.
5. Park in your garage, if you have one. Don’t leave your vehicle in thestreet, in an alley or in your driveway. If you have to park in the street,avoid dark or isolated areas.
6. Install an alarm system that will sound when someone attempts to break‐in,move, or start your vehicle. Always activate the system when leaving yourvehicle unattended.
7. Don’t leave spare keys attached to the outside of your vehicle or hiddeninside your vehicle. An experienced thief knows all the hiding places.
8. Park in open, well‐lighted, and populated areas near yourdestination. Avoid parking near
trucks, vans, dumpsters, or other objects that obstruct visibility andprovide hiding places. Avoid parking near strangers loitering or sitting invehicles.
9. Turn off your engine, roll up all your windows, lock all doors, and takeyour keys with you even if you are making a quick stop at a store or gasstation, or even in your driveway.
10. Replace yard and garage lights that help light up your yard and outsideparking.
As always if you see or hearsomething suspicious please call
911 immediately!
