How to deter car break-ins in Charlottesville
Vehicle theft and break-ins are a growing problem throughout our nation. Per the National Insurance Crime Bureau, over one million cars were reported stolen in 2022 alone. It’s not merely the amount that’s alarming, but also where the crimes take place, as they’re often right outside our homes. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to deter car break-ins in Charlottesville. See what they are and explore how your smart home can assist you.
Take steps to deter car break-ins and theft
Car theft and break-ins are typically opportunistic crimes, so don’t entice thieves by leaving keys inside your car or costly belongings in plain view. Always adhere to these practical tips:
- Park in well-illuminated areas and choose lots with video cameras or security guards whenever possible. Vehicles positioned in higher-traffic spots are also less apt to be targeted
- Keep valuables out of sight. If you need to store costly belongings in your car, put them in the glove compartment or trunk.
- Engage locks and shut windows, even if you park in your garage. You could forget to close your garage door, particularly during warmer times of the year.
- Never store keys within your car.
- Never leave your car running unattended. It requires only a few seconds for a thief to snatch it.
- Install deterrents like a wheel immobilizer or an alarm.
Surveillance cameras help protect vehicles in Charlottesville
Many prowlers will shy away from breaking into a vehicle or residence if they spot surveillance cameras. Your cameras will be even more evident if they have audible or visible deterrents. If a burglar comes too close, your camera will actively respond by sounding an alarm or brightening a light. A crucial element of home protection, surveillance is an excellent tool for deterring car break-ins, specifically if you often keep vehicles on your driveway.
When choosing surveillance systems, shop for features like:
- 1080p high-definition resolution for clear images
- Night vision, as many break-ins take place in low-light conditions. Even when using night vision, you’ll want to ensure you have adequate lighting, particularly around your garage.
- Wide viewing angles to obtain a more extensive picture of your home’s surroundings, including your driveway
- Innovative detection that can distinguish the difference between pets, cars, and people
- Integrated motion-activated lighting
The best surveillance will integrate effortlessly into your automated home. When a camera detects questionable actions, you’ll get an instant warning through the home security app on your phone. You can also check live feeds or recordings from wherever you are.
Watch over your autos and your Charlottesville home with Vivint
Deter car break-ins and theft in your Charlottesville area with the latest smart home tools from Vivint. Our video cameras with built-in deterrence are outstanding options to keep watch over your autos. You’ll be able to view video streams quickly and effortlessly with our mobile app. Find out more about our surveillance options and our fully integrated home security systems by calling (434) 404-5302 today.