Don't Make Your Vehicle a Target

By Ranger Brandy Hanusosky

Misfortune can strike anyone anywhere. Thefts from a vehicle can happen while you are at work, at the store and even at your own home. If your vehicle is forcibly entered, you will have to pay for repairs or insurance fees in addition to the loss of the stolen items. One of the best ways to avoid becoming a victim is to plan ahead carefully and follow some safety precautions in your daily routine:

• Lock your car doors, even when parked in your own driveway.
• If you know you are just going to the park to walk or exercise, leave unnecessary items like electronics, important identification, mail, unneeded cash, credit cards, etc. at home.
• Do not leave valuables (or things that look of value) such as purses/tote bags, wallets, laptops, tools or cell phones in plain view. If you know you are going to be driving somewhere and parking your car, put valuables in the trunk before you leave as to not draw attention to your car.
• Keep detailed lists (in a safe location at home) of the items you frequently carry, such as account numbers, credit cards, gas cards, etc. and the proper contact numbers to call to cancel your accounts. Also list the make, model and serial numbers for electronics such as cell phones, digital cameras, laptops and portable music players. 
• Park somewhere you feel comfortable, like a busy highly-visible area. 
• Remember your pets are valuable too. Do not leave pets in parked cars even for short periods if the temperature is in the 60s or higher. Rolling down a window doesn't guarantee protection either, as pets can escape be taken from the vehicle, etc.
• Have your keys in your hand as you approach your vehicle and lock the doors once you're inside. 

Report suspicious people or activities as they occur to the local police. If visiting a park, contact the Ranger Department at 440-354-3434, or 911 if it's an emergency.