If you do leave packages, clothing or other articles in the car, make sure they are out of sight. Park in well lit, busy areas. Avoid leaving your vehicle in unattended parking lots for long periods of time. If you park in a lot where you must leave a key, leave the ignition only, to protect items in the trunk or glove box. When buying a car, ask about anti-theft options such as steering column locks, alarms, switches that interrupt the fuel or electronic systems, and locks for tape decks, batteries and gas tanks.
Many insurance companies offer reduced rates to owners who install security devices.
Since 1969, the federal government has required manufacturers to engrave a unique number, the VIN, on all passenger cars in one visible and several hidden locations. One VIN is engraved on a metal plate on the dashboard near the windshield. VINs of stolen cars are registered with the FBI's National Crime Information Center. Engrave with an Operation Identification number recommended by local law enforcement. Lock all bicycles with a case-hardened chain or cable and lock, winding the cable through the frame and both wheels and then around a fixed object.