One of the things I learned early on to avoid too much loss from a car theft is to keep only the minimum amount of ‘stuff’ in your car over night.

Car theft on a college campus is especially a problem as criminals know you’re probably in class and far away.  And vandalism from other students other students can be a problem too. (here’s some statistics)

A few key preventive measures:

• Take everything with you (leave only the basics (like an emergency kit, tissues, pen, paper, registration)
• Always lock your doors and keep windows closed (on hot days you may leave the windows cracked
• “Out of sight, out of mind” – any valuables you do leave in your car, hide out of view
• Park near outside lights and other cars
• If possible change your car alarm to sound different than most others, we’re conditioned to ignore the traditional sound

Remember, it’s your car and the best way to minimize the risk associated with vehicle theft is to minimize your exposure.