According to the South Carolina Insurance News Service, police officers in South Carolina have reported a spike in the number of vehicle break-ins this summer.
The SCINS says thieves are stealing GPS systems, iPods, laptops, money, CDs, stereo equipment, clothes and gifts.
Each year, more than $1 billion in personal items and accessories are estimated to be stolen from vehicles in more than 2 million thefts.
"If you leave valuable possessions visible in your car then you're leaving bait for thieves. With some common sense preventative measures, you can reduce the chances your vehicle will be a target," says Allison Dean Love, executive director of the South Carolina Insurance News Service.
The South Carolina Insurance News Service offers the following tips to prevent vehicle break-ins:
*Use common sense. Lock your doors, remove the keys and park in a well-lit public area. Many vehicle break-ins are from unlocked cars, according to law enforcement agencies.
*Avoid parking in areas which conceal your vehicle.
*Hide valuables. Don't leave anything of value in view.
*Completely remove your GPS system and its windshield mount, iPod, packages and other valuables from the car. Even items stored in the trunk aren't safe from
thieves. Customized audio components make a car more attractive to thieves because it is easier for them to remove the system.
*Utilize visible and audible devices such as alarms or steering wheel locks. Also make sure your vehicle identification number (VIN) is etched on your vehicle. Other devices include brake locks, steering wheel locks, tire locks/tire deflators, theft deterrent decals and micro dot marking. The noise alone from an audible device may be enough to scare away a thief and prevent the break-in.
*For a detailed list of anti-theft devices, along with their costs and benefits, visit www.nicb.org.
*Completely close windows and sunroofs. In addition to leaving an easy entrance for thieves, open windows will disable the pressure sensor in some car alarms, leaving the vehicle more vulnerable to break-in and potentially giving thieves more time before the alarm sounds.
*Purchase a tracking device which emits a signal to police when the vehicle is reported stolen.
*Car buyers should consider a vehicle's theft rate before purchasing a new car. Ask your insurance agent or company for information, or visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's latest ratings at www.highwaysafety.org to view your vehicle's theft loss information.
*Automobile insurance policies normally pay for auto-related equipment only, not personal items stored in a car. If you had personal items stolen from or damaged while in your vehicle, your policy may not pay for them, or may pay only a limited amount. However, if you have a homeowners or renters insurance policy, your personal property may be covered. Visit the South Carolina Insurance News Service at www.scinsurance.net for more information on preventing vehicle break-ins and vehicle theft.
