Tips To Avoid Car Thefts, Break-Ins From Dedham Police

DEDHAM, MA — Summer is the most popular season for vehicle thefts and break-ins, according to the the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Because of this, July became recognized as National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, and Dedham police chief Michael D'Entremont sent out an announcement reminding residents to properly secure their cars to prevent break-ins and avoid being easy targets for thieves.

"Many vehicle break-ins happen because valuables are left in plain sight or vehicle doors are left unlocked,"D'Entremont said. "Locking your doors, removing your valuables and being smart about where you park can help prevent vehicle damage or the costly replacement of stolen possessions."

Dedham police suggested people get in the habit of following these safety suggestions to avoid thefts:

• Take your keys. Don't leave them in your vehicle.
• Close all windows and lock all doors.
• Never leave valuables in your vehicle. Anything stored inside your vehicle should be out of sight or in the trunk.
• Never leave credit cards/debit cards, cash or your wallet or purse inside of your vehicle overnight.
• Park in well-lit areas or preferably inside a garage, if possible. Park in visible areas where your vehicle is not hidden by foliage or larger vehicles. Install lights with motion sensors near where you park your vehicle.
• Get in the routine of double-checking that your vehicle is locked and secure each night around 9 p.m. This is known as the 9 p.m. Routine.

If your vehicle has been stolen or broken into, follow these steps:

• Call the police to report a theft or break-in. A copy of the police report and/or a case number will be needed to provide to your insurance company.
• Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours of when you discovered your vehicle was stolen or broken into.