Lock It ... or Lose It!

Theft from vehicles is an increasing issue in Dane County, and an issue to keep in mind everywhere. Keeping valuables inside of a vehicle is just not a good idea. There are criminals that specialize in just this type of crime, and like any skill, they get good at what they do. A wallet stolen from a vehicle will result in fraudulent credit/debit card charges within minutes. An unbelievable number of firearms are stolen from vehicles, and many of those are then used during other crimes. Garage door openers left in vehicles often result in home burglaries, as all the criminal has to do is press the button to get into the house. An extra key or fob left in a car will result in the car being taken.

It doesn’t matter where the vehicle is parked. You might be at the park, at a shopping center, at a health club, in your driveway… There are people out cruising, looking for the opportunity to take your stuff. These criminals are mobile and they are not selective about where they commit their crimes. They look for opportunities in the city, suburbs, and rural areas. If you give them the opportunity, they will take it. While unlocked doors are the easiest targets, if the item they want is visible, they will smash windows to get to it.

While random acts are the most common, do what you can to not get your vehicle and/or home targeted. Think about what you advertise on your vehicle that may grab a criminal’s attention. Firearm and hunting-related stickers advertise that you have guns. Kids’ sports and other activity stickers may suggest when you are away from home at practice. Stickers that advertise your leisure activities may suggest you have expensive toys in your garage. We aren’t saying you shouldn’t be proud of things, but just be aware of what your bumper stickers might reveal that you wouldn’t really want to share.