Help Put the Brakes on Vehicle Theft: Use the “Layered Approach” to Protection
Professional thieves can steal any car, but make them work for yours by using “layered protection.” The more layers of protection on your vehicle, the more difficult it is to steal.
Layer 1: Always Use Common Sense
- Lock your doors
- Remove your keys from the ignition
- Close your windows completely
- Park in well-lit areas
Layer 2: Use a Visible or Audible Device
- Audible alarms
- Steering column collars
- Steering wheel/brake pedal lock
- Brake locks
- Wheel locks
- Theft deterrent decals
- Identification markers in or on vehicle
- Window etching
- Micro Dot marking
Layer 3: Install a Vehicle Immobilizer
- Smart keys
- Fuse cut-offs
- Kill switches
- Starter, ignition and fuel disablers
- Wireless, ignition authentication
Layer 4: Invest in a Tracking System
Put your vehicle on the radar screen by installing a tracking system that emits a signal to the police or monitoring service when the vehicle is reported stolen. Some systems employ “telematics” which combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring of a vehicle. If the vehicle is moved, the system will alert the owner and the vehicle can be tracked by computer.
How to prevent theft of other motor vehicles
Many of the same precautions that apply to cars also apply to recreational vehicles.
Lock it
- Make sure all easy-to-carry items like motors, water skis, and camping gear are locked up before leaving your vehicle.
Chain it
- Vehicles carried on trailers should be secured with a strong chain and padlock.
- When the trailer is not attached to your car, secure it with a heavy chain and lock it to a stationary object.
- Chain your motorcycle, scooter or atv to a stationary object such as a lamp post or sewer grating. Even when your vehicle is in your garage, use a heavy chain and padlock that resists steel hacksaw blades or bolt cutters.
Remember that the Metro Nashville Police Department is here to support you. We appreciate your help.
The telephone number of the Auto Theft Unit is 615-862-7612.