The American Red Cross wants you to have a safe and enjoyable visit to our facility. Therefore, it is necessary to inform you that our facility is assessable to auto theft.

In 2003 there were 69 auto thefts within a ½ mile radius of our facility; and vehicles have been stolen from or vandalized within our parking lot. Therefore we are passing along the following helpful information, to help you better protect your property while visiting our facility.

Motor vehicles are stolen from shopping malls, streets, driveways, parking lots, garages, and car dealerships. Automobile theft seems to occur with greater frequency where large groups of cars are parked together for extended periods like at airports, shopping centers, colleges, sporting events, fairgrounds, movie complexes, and large apartment complexes. High-rise and subterranean parking structures seem to have a lower auto theft rate, probably due to a reduced number of escape routes and the possibility of being trapped from above or below ground level.

A few common sense steps can help you reduce your risk of becoming a victim of auto theft:

• Never leave your car running and unattended, even to dash into a business.

• Never leave your keys in the car or ignition.

• Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is in front of your home.

• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk out of sight.

• Always park in a high-traffic, well-lighted area, if possible.

• Install a mechanical device that locks to the steering wheel, column, or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned more than a few degrees. Commonly called clubs, collars, or J-bars. These devices can act as a highly visible physical deterrent if installed properly.

• Investigate the purchase of an auto security system if you live in a high-theft area or drive a theft-prone vehicle. Display an alarm decal near the door handle.

• If you park in a fee garage, take the pay-ticket with you. It's the thief's ticket out of the garage, too.

• If you use valet parking, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no identifying information is attached to the key. Do the same when you take your car for repairs.

• Carry your driver’s license, registration, and insurance card with you. Don't leave personal identification documents or credit cards in your vehicle.

• Copy your license plate and vehicle identification (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them on you with your driver's license. If your vehicle is stolen, police will need this information promptly.

Lora D. Reid
Manager, Volunteer Resources