Police Warn That Car Thefts Are Surging Across New York

Police are warning people to be extra careful and use due diligence when they leave their vehicles.

There has been a surge in reported vehicle thefts across the state and police in Hamburg, New York took to Facebook to warn residents to make sure they are protecting themselves against car thieves.

HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST CAR THIEVES

The biggest thing is to make sure you are not making it easy for thieves to get into your car. Most car thefts happen because people are leaving their cars unlocked or leaving the keys in them. Locking your doors at night is the best way to prevent your car from getting stolen.

Another way to help protect your car is to get a GPS tracking system installed in the vehicle. This will help you and the police track your vehicle if it does happen to get stolen.

Get our free mobile app

Also if you have to park in the street or outside the parking lot, try to park in a well-lit area. If there is a lot of light near your car, chances are thieves won't take the chance at being seen by someone.

Install an immobilizer system. Car thieves can bypass your ignition by "hotwiring" your car, but a vehicle immobilizer system can be used to disable the vehicle even if the thief is driving it.

EXTRA: THIS IS THE MOST STOLEN CAR IN NEW YORK

What To Do If Your Vehicle Is Stolen

Call the police as soon as you know your car has been stolen. Make sure you have all your car's information handy. The police will want the year, make, model, and color of the car, the license plate number, and the Vehicle Identification Number or "VIN" number. You should have this information located somewhere outside your car so you can give it to the police.