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Most vehicle crimes start with the operator. All it takes is a little complacency and forgetfulness to land you in a miserable situation.

With holidays just around the corner, so are the highest crime rates of the year.

Criminals know cars will be loaded with expensive goodies and left unattended for hours on end. Those goodies in plain sight are ready to put a smile on the wrong person’s face, the criminals.

While you’re spending time in stores, standing in long lines, or making an attempt to burn off those holiday pounds at the fitness center, these criminals know you won’t be back anytime soon. That makes for the best opportunity to break into your car. And it is easier than you think.

Breaking a window takes all of a second and in the mix of holiday chaos could easily go unnoticed.

Let’s be honest, when a car alarm goes off do you really look around for potential crime?

This year it is up to you and your community to become proactive and not become just another robbery statistic that could have easily been prevented. After all, if you don’t provide it they won’t come.

So here is what you can do: we call it prevention

• Follow the HLT principles, Hide your things, Lock your car, and Take your keys signs.
• Keep extra towels or blankets in the car. Cover up anything of value and that could be mistaken as valuable. Thieves are more likely to see something and break in on impulse than pre-meditate a target.
• Keep mail, receipts, and other identification hidden in a safe place (identity thefts are at an all-time high with advancements in technology)

And here is how you can help others do the same:

• If you are a business, post the Hide Lock Take signs around the parking lot to remind customers to take precautions. It shows that you care. Also, consider posting a sign right by the entrance or in a common waiting area for those waiting for a table or appointment.
• Purchase or print for free the “Vehicle Rating Cards” and distribute as necessary. They alert vehicle owners about a Hide Lock Take violation and inform them about taking preventative action in the future.