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Help Prevent Car Burglary and Auto Theft

Home More News Help Prevent Car Burglary and Auto Theft

The northern suburbs have recently experienced an increase in car burglaries and auto theft. This includes Highland Park residential neighborhoods and public lots. These burglaries and thefts are occurring during the day and evening hours and involve different types of entry. Most of the vehicles are unlocked, but in some cases, broken windows were the method of gaining entry. Unlocked vehicles that contain garage door openers also provide thieves with easy access to other valuables. The one thing that all these crimes had in common was that valuable items were left in plain view. Please take the following precautions to avoid becoming a victim of these crimes:
 
  • Always lock your car even if it is in your driveway or in front of your home.
  • Do not leave valuable items in your car in plain view.  Purses, wallets, electronic items, and shopping purchases should be removed or secured in the trunk out of sight.
  • Don’t leave keys, fobs, or valet keys in unattended vehicles.
  • Always park in a well-lit area if possible, and leave your outside lights on overnight if your car is in your driveway.
  • Consider motion-activated outdoor lighting or lighting on timers.
  • Make sure your garage door is closed and any access door into the garage is secured including the door from the garage to your home.
  • Consider a car alarm in conjunction with an alarm for your home.  Many insurance companies offer a discount on premiums for a property with alarms. 
  • Promptly report any suspicious persons or activity in your neighborhood to the Police Department. Crime prevention only works when the community takes an active role.
  • Consider joining the City's Neighbor to Neighbor program. Call 847.926.1000 for more information.
 
For additional information, please contact Commander Jon Lowman on the Police Department Non-Emergency line at 847.432.7730.