Prevent Automobile Theft

Is Your Car at Risk?


Vehicle theft is on the rise. In Arizona, a car is stolen every nine minutes and 21 seconds, and across the nation one is stolen every 25.3 seconds. During the past 20 years (1984-2003) vehicle theft has increased by more than 379% in the State of Arizona. Thieves cruise through parking lots, City streets, and neighborhoods to see what they can take.
All cars are potential targets, but the top 10 cars that are currently being stolen in America are:
  • Chevrolet full-size king cab pickup
  • Ford full-size pickup
  • Nissan Sentra
  • Honda Accord
  • Chrysler / Dodge / Plymouth Colt
  • Nissan pickup
  • Honda Civic
  • Dodge Ram pickup
  • Saturn SL
  • Toyota Camry
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During winter months, several vehicles in Flagstaff are stolen in the early morning when owners leave the vehicles running, unattended, to warm them up.


Don't Become a Victim


Here are some helpful hints the Flagstaff Police Department recommends to help avoid becoming a victim:
  • Never leave your car running or with the keys in the ignition when you are away from your vehicle
  • Always roll up the windows and lock the vehicle, even if it's in front of your home
  • Park in busy, well-lighted areas
  • Record your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the windows, doors, fenders, and trunk lid - this prevents thieves from removing and reselling those parts
  • Copy and keep the VIN in a safe place
  • Do not leave valuables visible in the vehicle, such as briefcases, purses, back packs, cell phones, etc
  • Never leave underage children unattended in your vehicle, as it is unsafe and illegal

Anti-Theft Devices


The Flagstaff Police Department recommends the use of the following devices:
  • Installation of a mechanical locking device commonly called a club, collar, or j-bar that lock to the steering column or brake to prevent the wheel from being turned
  • When buying a car, check the manufactures list of anti theft options, such as interior hood and trunk releases, and locking steering columns
  • Purchase and install: Gas cap locking devise
  • Alarm devise to activate a siren, horn, or lights; or all three to frighten away thieves