Unlocked Car -- Even Briefly -- Is Open Invite To Thieves: Reminder From MVPD

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA – The Mountain View Police Department recently issued a notice to residents to lock up their vehicles at all times, as unlocked cars -- particularly in cold weather -- attract thieves:

"Sometimes, you forgot something inside your house, so you just want to run in really fast and grab it. Other times, you have a few spare minutes to run inside a store and grab some food you need at home.

"You think, ‘My stuff will be safe for a few minutes.’ And so, your phone, your wallet, your purse, a package or an iPod gets left unattended inside your car.

"When you come back out, it’s gone!

"It’s never easy and it certainly isn’t fun to find out your car has been burglarized and that your personal items have been taken. Over the past several weeks, we’ve received several calls about this. Sometimes, items are taken. Sometimes, the suspect rifles through your things, but decides they didn’t find what they were looking for.

"But every time, it feels like your personal space has been invaded.

"As the winter months approach, we wanted to take moment to remind residents to not leave their vehicles warming up unattended and to not leave anything of value inside your car.

"Thieves target cars during the cooler months and can steal your cell phone, wallet, iPod or even your car in a matter of seconds. Some other reminders to protect your vehicles and valuables include:

• Lock your car and when you park, do so in well-lit areas
• Don’t leave valuables, including keys or personal paperwork in view or in your car
• If you can, purchase Onstar, Lojack, or other similar tracking systems that can be useful if your car is stolen
• Keep your vehicle information (license plate, VIN number, proof of ownership) accessible in your house in case of a theft

"Further information can be found on the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website."

• ALSO SEE: Alleged Dealer Busted Selling Marijuana Near High School In Mountain View: Police

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