In the summer time, burglaries and car thefts happen more frequently than any other season. This is due to a variety of factors, including vacations, travel, and warm days that may have people opening up their windows and leaving doors open to get some air. All of these present ample opportunities for thieves and burglars to steal your things, and cars are no exception.

Fortunately, by using common sense and taking the proper steps to protect your vehicle, you can drastically reduce the risk factors that could lead to your vehicle being stolen. Keep reading below for tips!

1. Lock your doors and roll up and lock the windows of your car. This may come as no surprise, but many people fail to do this simple thing to help deter thieves. Because thieves are opportunistic, the easier the vehicle is to get into, the better their chances of getting your vehicle from you. By locking your doors and rolling up your windows, you can protect your car from thieves and slow down their process, keeping your valuables safe.

2. Don’t leave your car running or your car keys in the vehicle, even for short errands. This makes it easier for thieves to snatch your car and drive off with them before you may even have the chance to notice they’re gone.

3. Park your vehicle in a well-lit area. Avoid parking in lots or garages that are poorly lit or not immediately seen by passersby. Areas that are lit and well-trafficked are your best bet for parking, which can deter thieves simply because there is a higher chance of them being seen.

4. Install an audible alarm system and anti-theft devices. These will alert you if an unauthorized person attempts to enter or steal the vehicle, and has a pretty good chance of scaring them off.

5. Don’t leave valuables in your car. Purses, cellphones, laptops, bags or other valuables should never be left unattended in the car. If you must keep something in the car, keep it out of view or place it in the trunk or under a sweater so it cannot be seen.

6. Consider a dash cam. Some dash cams can record activity even when you aren’t driving. Do some research to look for some type of camera device to keep in your car. That way if someone tries to steal your vehicle or succeeds, you can have video evidence of the crime to turn over to police and hopefully get your car back as soon as possible.

7. Be alert. Be aware of your surroundings when you park your vehicle. If you are wary of the safety of your car or see someone loitering or otherwise acting suspicious in a parking lot, don’t park there. Double check your doors are locked and windows are rolled up and locked to keep not only your car safe, but to keep you safe as well.

To learn more tips on how to prevent your car from being stolen, click here!