Did you know that in 2017, 175,351 vehicles were stolen throughout California, at an estimated total value of approximately $1.3 billion?

The average rate of theft in 2017 was one vehicle every three minutes. Approximately 51.5 percent of all thefts occurred in Southern California (Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties).

Of the thefts in Southern California, 54.4 percent occurred in LA County.

Thankfully, through the diligent efforts of law enforcement, of the 175,351 vehicles stolen statewide in 2017, 89.6 percent were successfully recovered, representing 157,183 recovered vehicles.

Most of us work hard for our money and the things we buy. Don’t give it to the bad guys…… Following these five tips will help lower the chances of your vehicle being stolen, or burglarized:

1. Don’t leave your keys in the car. Burglars know many people believe their cars are safe in the garage and leave the keys inside. Don’t help the thief, lock your keys inside your house (This also applies to Key Fobs).

2. Use an anti-theft device. Devices like the Club, pedal locks or an immobilization device (or kill switch) will make your car harder to steal and make a thief think twice about stealing your car.

3. Park your car in a garage or secured parking area. Also think about parking in an area with good lighting so thieves can’t conceal themselves in the dark.

4. Have your vehicle identification number etched on your windows and other commonly stolen parts. This will deter V.I.N. switching and dismantling of the vehicle.

5. Use a GPS tracking device to keep track of your vehicle or motorcycle. Several companies make them, they all have various features and come in a host of prices.

r more information regarding vehicle theft statistics from the California Highway Patrol, click here.

please visit our Friends at @chp by clicking https://www.chp.ca.gov/FieldSupportSectionSite/Documents/2017%20Vehicle%20Theft%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf