With car thefts on the rise in some areas due to a new social media trend that encourages young people to steal certain vehicles, it’s important to take steps to protect your car. Here are some tips from Traveler’s Insurance to help prevent car theft:

• Use a steering wheel lock

• Always lock your doors and take your keys with you

• Don’t leave a spare key in your car

• Hide or remove any USB wires or chargers (as they can be used to jump-start vehicles)

• Close all windows

• Consider installing an alarm system, anti-theft device, vehicle immobilizer system, or tracking system

• Hide valuables before parking: Thieves often watch for people leaving valuables in their cars. Hide them before parking to avoid attracting attention.

• Park in visible locations: Choose well-lit, open spaces to park. Thieves may act even in daylight if they can find cover. Consider an anti-theft device to prevent catalytic converter theft.

• Don’t leave your car idling unattended: Always lock your car and take your keys and key fob with you, even for brief stops. Thieves target convenience store parking lots and gas stations where people leave their cars running.

We hope these tips help keep your car safe. Our final recommendation is to have your existing auto insurance policy reviewed by a licensed insurance agent, to see if your car theft coverage is adequate. Contact a Pearson Wallace agent now for a complimentary policy review.