How To Avoid Getting Your Car Stolen: Southington PD

SOUTHINGTON, CT — The Southington Police Department Friday released a litany of information designed to keep folks cars in their own driveways and parking spots.

The warning comes ahead of the cold weather season (which appears on hold for the time being) where many are tempted to leave their cars running in the morning to warm up their vehicle.

The Southington PD has a simple answer regarding that practice — don't or, at the very least, lock your vehicle while warming up and making quick stops.

"The Southington Police Auto Theft Task force would like to thank the effort of our citizens and town’s visitors who continue to share their video, helping us solve many of our vehicle thefts and burglaries," wrote the SPD in a statement Friday afternoon.

"We would also like to remind and encourage anyone obtaining any type of video of suspicious or criminal activity to forward video directly to our Auto Theft Task Force."

The task force can be reached via email at autotheft@southingtonpolice.org (Include a name, address, and contact number).

Meanwhile, the SPD offered these anti-car theft tips:

• Lock your doors. A majority of car break-ins and thefts are from unlocked cars, police said.

• Secure your vehicle. Roll your car windows up all the way and engage the car alarm, but do not depend on it as the only way to deter a thief.

"A car thief can break into your car and be out in about 30 seconds, fast enough that an alarm doesn't scare most of them away," the SPD said.

• Keep your vehicle tidy.

" Thieves like to window shop," police wrote. "Avoid leaving anything visible in the car. Almost any item that's visible from the outside - even if you think it is worthless - could be seen as valuable to a thief."

• Conceal all proof. Stow your electronics and accessories well out of sight, or just take it along with you.

The proof alone might be enough to pique the interest of thieves, including items such as power cords, adapters and GPS windshield suction-cup mounts, police said.

• Stash before you park. Get in the habit of putting items you want hidden in the trunk of your car before you arrive at your destination.

• Park Smart. Park in a busy, well-lit area and avoid concealment from larger vehicles, fences, or foliage. Avoid parking in isolated and poorly-lit areas.

Police said if you observe a crime or suspicious activity, such as a vehicle theft or break-in in progress, call 911 immediately.

Callers should provide the 911 dispatcher with: location, suspect's description and direction of travel.

For more information on the Southington Police Department, Click on this link.