As more and more people flock to the airports, malls and stores this holiday season, car theft is increasing. Be aware that during this season you are more likely to have your car stolen. Many stores step up security in the parking lots during the season. This article is about the rise in car theft in a central California Town, Fresno. Most cars are recovered, with the thieves taking stuff in the car and using the car for transportation.
If your car is full of tempting stuff, luggage, cool stereo, shopping bags full of Christmas shopping, cameras, laptop computers, etc., you are more likely to be a victim. They will take the shopping bags with the stuff and return it to the store for cash or sell it. The likely will take the stereo, wheels and rims and anything else that they can quickly strip from the car and then abandon it.
Get a car alarm and hide any valuables, preferably in the trunk. One good alarm that we recommend is the Raxus, it is inexpensive, highly visible, loud, install it yourself in seconds and take it with you if you travel for rental cars.
The Fresno Bee
Tuesday, December 9, 2003,
By Marc Benjamin
Lots of Auto Theft
Thieves go shopping, too, at Christmastime, and your parked car may be a
target.
While you shop this holiday season, someone else may be shopping, too -- for
your car.
In December, shopping centers are ground zero for auto theft.
It's the primary reason Valley police departments step up patrols in
shopping areas.
"Any major shopping center where people are going to be out is a target,"
Fresno police Sgt. Shannon Galvan said.
In November and December 2002, the average monthly number of auto thefts
jumped from 680 to nearly 1,000.