Crime prevention Miami 2013

Protecting our loved ones and our vehicles
should be a top priority for us all. Crime prevention and security experts estimate that a vehicle is stolen
every 20 seconds in the United States. That’s well over two million stolen vehicles annually. And, this year
there will be over 40,000 potentially deadly carjackings, nearly half of which result in personal injury. One
out of every 29 vehicles will be stolen this year. And its not just a “big city crime.” Even in smaller cities, one
out of every 50 vehicles will be stolen.
Who Are The Criminals?
Vehicle related crimes are committed by a wide range of criminals. They can be young thrill seekers, adult
professionals using high-tech tools that disable security systems, or violent criminals willing to commit
person-to-person crimes to steal a vehicle or it’s cargo.
How Can You Stop Them?
First and foremost, follow the suggestions listed in the Don’t Be A Victim section below. These common
sense reminders focus on personal awareness of potentially dangerous situations and the use of
mechanical and electronic devices to deter and defeat criminals.
Don’t Be A Victim!
Common sense steps to avoid vehicle theft and reduce the risk of carjacking.
1) Be Alert! Awareness of what’s going on around you is your best defense.
2) Always turn off your engine and lock your doors - even at the gas station or convenience store.
3) Drive with your doors locked and windows up. Never roll down your window for a suspicious person.
4) Avoid dark, isolated areas. If a suspicious person is near your vehicle do not approach it.
5) Place packages and valuables in the trunk or out of sight.
6) If you are confronted by a carjacker, don’t resist. Your personal safety is more important than your vehicle.
7) If you don’t already have one, install a quality electronic vehicle security system that includes all of the
deterrent features listed in
8) If you have a factory installed keyless entry system or an after-market alarm system, check it against the
Security System Essentials list and update your system to protect against high-tech thieves.