July/August Prime Time for Car Theft

Residents from all over the area have been recently reporting an increasing number of attempted car break-ins; statistically speaking, this increase is normal for this time of the year.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, July and August are the worst months for vehicle thefts.

"More than 40 percent of motor vehicle theft incidents involve mistakes by drivers," agency spokesman Derrell Lyles said.

To help protect vehicles and personal belongings from being stolen, the agency advises:

• Always take your key; don't leave it in or on your vehicle.
• Always close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Always keep your vehicle in your garage, if possible.
• Never, ever leave valuables in your vehicle, especially where they can be seen.
• Never, ever leave the area while your vehicle is running.
• Protect your vehicle with an antitheft/immobilizer device.

"Radios and wheel covers aren't the only popular stolen vehicle parts thieves take. They want whatever sells, from the mandated labeled parts to those that aren't," Lyles said.

These include engine parts as well as airbags. He also lists radios, GPS units, iPods, laptops and purses among the most frequently stolen items left in vehicles.

The NHTSA suggests contacting police immediately to report an incident and insurance companies within 24 hours to file a claim. They further recommend having information such as license plate number, make, model and color of car, VIN number and any identifying characteristics readily available.