FULTON, MD — Howard County drivers can take advantage of a free vehicle theft-prevention service Saturday, when county police offer vehicle identification number etching and steering wheel locks to qualifying drivers.
The Howard County Police Department will host the event from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its Southern District Station, 11226 Scaggsville Road in Fulton, weather permitting.
During the event, police will engrave a vehicle's identification number, commonly called a VIN, onto its major glass surfaces, including windows.
The process takes only a few minutes and is designed to discourage vehicle theft by making stolen vehicles and their parts more difficult to sell. The engraved identification numbers can also help investigators identify stolen vehicles and return them to their owners.
In addition to the free etching service, police will distribute a limited number of steering wheel locks to Hyundai and Kia owners. Steering wheel locks provide an added layer of protection by making it harder for thieves to operate a vehicle.
The event is part of the department's ongoing efforts to reduce vehicle thefts and educate motorists about protecting their property, the police department stated.
According to Howard County police, drivers can reduce their risk of vehicle theft by removing keys and key fobs, locking vehicle doors and avoiding leaving vehicles running unattended.
Drivers are also encouraged to park in well-lit areas, keep valuables out of sight, and consider additional security measures such as vehicle tracking systems and alarms.
Police remind residents that even briefly leaving a vehicle running outside a home, convenience store or gas station can create an opportunity for theft.
The Nov. 7 VIN etching event is free.
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