Vehicle Theft Prevention
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Vehicle Theft Prevention

Mary Amberg
Crime Prevention Coordinator
Mary Amberg (206) 684-7711
mary.amberg@seattle.gov

Crime Prevention Coordinators are experts in crime prevention techniques.  You can talk to them about outgoing crime problems in your neighborhood, getting involved in Block Watch and setting up a meeting to train you and your neighbors on crime prevention tips.

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Vehicle Theft Prevention

Many auto thefts are crimes of “opportunity”.  Leaving the keys in your car (even a “hidden” spare key) greatly increases your chances of having your car stolen.

Take your keys with you even for quick trips.  Needless to say, this is especially true if you have children or pets in the vehicle.

What attracts a car thief?

  • Leaving your car unlocked or the windows down​.
  • Leaving your keys in the car or a spare key hidden in the car.
  • Leaving your car unattended.
  • Parking in poorly lit places with low visibility.
  • Leaving valuables and packages in your car.
  • Cars not protected with an anti-theft device.

How to protect your car

  • Don't leave your keys in your car.​
  • Close your windows and lock your doors whenever you leave your car, regardless of how long you plan to be gone.​
  • Park in well-lit areas.
  • Keep your car in a garage if you have one.​
  • Park in lots that have attendants.​
  • Use an anti-theft device whenever you leave your car.
  • When parking your car, turn your wheels toward the curb to make it more difficult for a thief to "tow" your car.​
  • Use your emergency brake when you park.
  • Engrave your driver's license number preceded by the state letters (WA D.L.) or your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on any removable equipment in your car.
  • Replace "T-shaped" door locks with straight locks so thieves cannot grab them with an implement through a crack in the window.​
  • Immediately report any suspicious activity to the police (for a non emergency contact 206-625-5011)​

When you are in your car

  • Keep your doors and windows locked, no matter how short the distance or how safe you feel in the neighborhood.
  • When you're coming to a stop, leave enough space to maneuver around other cars. If you sense trouble, this will allow you the room needed to get away.​
  • If a suspicious-looking person approaches your car, drive away carefully.​
  • Drive in the inside (center) lane to make it more difficult for would-be carjackers to approach your car.​
  • Don't stop to assist a stranger whose car has broken down. Instead, help by driving to the nearest phone or using your cell phone to call the police for help. DO NOT USE YOUR CELLPHONE WHILE DRIVING.​
Mary Amberg
Crime Prevention Coordinator
Mary Amberg (206) 684-7711
mary.amberg@seattle.gov

Crime Prevention Coordinators are experts in crime prevention techniques.  You can talk to them about outgoing crime problems in your neighborhood, getting involved in Block Watch and setting up a meeting to train you and your neighbors on crime prevention tips.

Seattle Police logo
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