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Top 10 items stolen from vehicles

January
18

Back in November, we reported that 'smash and grabs' were on the rise with opportunistic thieves looking to steal any goods on display in your vehicle, particularly in older models that are easier to break in to. Here are the top 10 items stolen from vehicles in 2013 and top 5 tips to protect your vehicle.

IMPACT reports these items were the most popular with thieves in 2013:

  1. Smartphones
  2. Personal electronics - tablets, laptops, iPods, GPS
  3. Work tools
  4. Credit cards and identification
  5. Stereo equipment
  6. Cash and change
  7. Car parts and accessories
  8. Garage door openers
  9. Sunglasses
  10. Keys

How can I protect my vehicle?

You can greatly reduce the risk of theft by following these common-sense strategies:

  1. Use an anti-theft device and park in well-lit areas, near pedestrian traffic or security.
  2. Remove possessions from your vehicle - shopping bags, spare change, electronics, brief cases, etc.
  3. Do not keep spare keys to your vehicle in the vehicle. Remove valet keys.
  4. Keep your garage door opener out of sight. If parking on the street outside your residence, take the garage door opener with you.
  5. Wait for the garage door gate to close behind you. Thieves could take this opportunity to slip inside the parkade.