The COVID-19 crisis is changing every aspect of life, and it’s hard to predict how the world will change tomorrow, next week, and in the months to come. Even crime is being changed by the crisis. When it comes to crime, it seems like there’s good news and bad news. The good news is, residential break-ins are down significantly since everyone is staying home. The bad news is, business break-ins are on the rise, and vehicle theft and vandalism are up significantly.
According to the New York Police Department, car thefts increased by more than 50 percent in the last month. Why? Good question. Even though people are home, vehicles parked on the street and in driveways are being used less. Without the threat of people coming and going, your car becomes a sitting duck for tempted criminals. It has also been speculated that police focus is directed elsewhere during the current crisis, leaving residential areas more susceptible.
Other cities, including Seattle and Los Angeles, also reported increases. In some cases, car owners who were sheltering in place didn’t even know their vehicles had been stolen until they were notified by police.
How to Secure Your Vehicle
You might not be using your vehicle much right now, but it’s important to make sure it’s secure while it’s sitting out there on the street or in your driveway.
First: Try to park as close to home as possible and ALWAYS MAKE SURE IT’S LOCKED.
Second: Use cameras to cover the area of your property where your car is. Even the appearance of a camera watching your vehicle is a deterrent for thieves.
Third: Use motion sensors connected to lights that come on if anyone approaches your vehicle. You can set up your abode system so that sensors will notify you if motion is detected, and you can program this to only happen at selected times if you prefer.
abode’s outdoor smart cam has a built-in motion sensor and can be used to trigger automations with compatible outdoor lights from top brands like LIFX and Philip’s HUE. With this device, you can record an HD clip of the would-be thief while scaring them off.
Trying to deal with any kind of crime is the last thing anyone needs right now. Taking a few precautions and making full use of your home security system will help to ensure you’re not a victim of vehicle crime.
