Did you know that California is the state with the most stolen cars? To help address this problem, the Automobile Club of Southern California and local law enforcement will provide free anti-car theft Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etching for car windows from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20, at the West Division of the LAPD.
Anyone can receive the VIN etching on their windows to make them a less likely target for car theft. Car window VIN etchings are small, but visible enough to deter thieves, according to law enforcement officials.
The event is co-hosted by the Auto Club Santa Monica branch, the LAPD West Division and National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). The agencies also will offer car theft and vehicle burglary prevention tips to owners.
Members and non-members, with current vehicle registrations and driver licenses, can attend the event at the Los Angeles Police Dept. West Division, 1663 Butler Ave., 90025. For more information, call the branch at 310-453-5800 or Auto Club Public Relations at 714-885-2324.
Car theft is the number one property crime in America. The NICB, law enforcement and National Highway Transportation Safety Agency say the permanent engraving of a vehicle’s federally registered VIN helps deter car theft because VIN-etched car windows prevent thieves from switching the dashboard VIN plate to mask the car’s identity, and marked car parts can’t be sold as easily.
The Auto Club and co-hosting agencies’ tips to prevent vehicle burglary and theft include:
- Always lock your vehicle with the windows closed. Never leave valuables inside the car, especially not in clear view, including small electronics, purses, wallets, checkbooks, personal paperwork or any personal identification.
- Bring electronics and personal items into your home or office whenever possible.
- Use anti-theft or automatic tracking devices. If your vehicle wasn’t equipped with an alarm or hidden tracking device when purchased, have one installed.
- Never leave your keys in your vehicle, even at a gas station.
- Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a secure garage or a well-lit area at night.
- Never hide a spare ignition key in your vehicle, including under floor mats, sun visor, etc.
- Never leave the vehicle running at any time when you’re not in it. This includes your driveway, while picking up friends, or while at a grocery store or shopping mall.
