It can get pretty hot in the Flagstaff area, with temperatures routinely getting into the triple digits. Not only that, but the spread out nature of the region makes it hard to get around without a car.
So the last thing you want to do is watch your beloved and much needed vehicle roll away without you, and yet that has been the reality for many a Flagstaff resident. Car theft is a real problem here, and you do not want to become the next victim. If you want to protect your car, you need to know what to do, and here are some smart tips for securing your car and making sure it stays where it is.
Never Leave Your Car Running
It can be tempting to leave your car running with the AC on, especially on those triple digit days. Even so, you should never leave your car running and unattended — not even for a few minutes.
Leaving your car running and unattended is an open invitation to car thieves, one they will quickly take advantage of. It is worth getting into a hot car – at least you will have a car to climb into.
Keep Track of Your Keys
Your keys are literally the x factor in car theft, so keep track of them carefully. If you keep a spare set of keys on home, keep them with you – never place them on your car – not under the floor mat, not above the visor. Car thieves know to look there, and before you know it, your car will be gone.
Use an Anti-Theft Device
You might think that everyone ignores car alarms, but that is not the case. A car alarm can get the attention of passersby and scare away potential thieves, so think about installing one.
If you want something easier to install, a steering wheel lock is a good alternative. These physical anti-theft devices can be surprisingly effective, especially if you use them consistently.
Watch Where You Park
Flagstaff is a big place, with lots of wide open spaces and an abundance of parking. That means you can be pickier than most about where you leave your car, so use that fact to your advantage.
If an area seems sketchy or not safe, move on to somewhere better. When driving at night, look for well lit parking lots or park your car under a streetlight. Thieves love the dark, and they are likely to pass your car by if a bright light is shining on it.
There are few things worse than having your car stolen, and the repercussions can last for months. When your car disappears, so does the stuff you had inside, and replacing it will be costly and time consuming. It is better to prevent car theft in the first place, and the tips listed above can help you get started.
