Keep your vehicle safe during the holiday season

The Mesa Police Department and the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA) are alerting the public to be extra cautious about leaving valuables in their vehicle as the 2007 holiday season approaches. The AATA reports that the month of December is historically one of the highest months for vehicle thefts and burglaries from vehicles.

Mesa residents can take extra precautions to secure their vehicles through a "layered approach" to protection. The more layers on your vehicle, the tougher it is to steal.

Layer #1 -- The Common Sense Approach

• Lock your car and always take the keys with you.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Never leave your vehicle running unattended.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view. Lock merchandise in the trunk. If you do not have a trunk, keep packages covered and out of sight.
• Do not hide a spare set of keys in the car. The pros know where to look.
• If you have a garage....use it.

Layer #2 -- Visible and Audible Warning Devices

The second layer of protection is any device that can be SEEN or HEARD and alerts thieves that your vehicle is protected.

• Audible alarms, steering wheel locks, brake locks.
• The AATA's free Watch Your Car program.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etching on vehicle windows -- visit the AATA's website for a list of free events in the community. www.azwatchyourcar.com; Events page).

Layer #3 -- Immobilizing Devices

This third layer of protection is a device that prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some popular devices include:

• Kill switches
• Starter, ignition and fuel disablers
• Smart keys
• High security locks & keys
• Fuse cut-offs

Layer #4 -- Tracking Devices

The final layer of protection if a tracking device which emits a signal to a police or monitoring station when the vehicle is repotted stolen. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.

In an effort to decrease your chances of becoming a victim, the Mesa Police Department has partnered with Target to offer H.E.A.T. (Help Eliminate Auto Theft).  Attend a H.E.A.T. event to have your vehicle identification number (VIN) etched on your vehicle windows for free and learn about the free Watch Your Car program.

Saturday, December 1, 2007
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Target Store at 1135 S. Gilbert Rd.
(Gilbert/Southern)

Receive a free steering wheel lock for your vehicle when you participate in the Watch Your Car program or have your vehicle VIN etched (while supplies last). Free child safety seat inspections will also be available at the above event.

For additional information about the AATA and the Watch Your Car program, please call 1-888-668-4433 or visit www.azwatchyourcar.com. For information about Mesa's H.E.A.T. events, please contact crime prevention officer, Jerry Quarles, at 480-644-2539.