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Auto Club, Law Enforcement Offer Free Car Theft Prevention Etching In Ventura

VIN etching

The Automobile Club of Southern California’s Ventura branch will etch the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on vehicle windows for free as a theft deterrent on Wednesday, July 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Auto Club members and non-members can receive the VIN etching on their vehicle windows to make them a less likely target for car theft. Car VIN window etchings are small, but visible enough to deter thieves.

 

The Auto Club, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), and Ventura County Auto Theft Task Force (VENCATT) which consists of the California Highway Patrol Coastal Division, the District Attorney’s Office, the Ventura Police Dept. and DMV are co-hosting the event at the Auto Club Ventura branch, 1501 S. Victoria Ave., 93003-6583.  The Oxnard Police Dept. is also participating.  These organizations also will offer theft and vehicle burglary prevention tips to car owners.

 

Car theft is the number one property crime in America.  Law-enforcement officials say the permanent engraving of a vehicle’s federally registered VIN etching helps deter car theft because VIN-etched car parts cannot be sold as easily by thieves.

 

The Auto Club and local law enforcement’s tips to prevent vehicle burglary and theft include:

 

  • Always lock your vehicle with the windows closed. Never leave valuables inside the car, especially not in clear view, including small electronics, wallets, check books, personal and financial paperwork or any personal identification.
  • Bring electronics and personal items into your home or office whenever possible.
  • Use anti-theft or automatic tracking devices. If your vehicle wasn’t equipped with an alarm or hidden tracking device when purchased, have one installed.
  • Never leave your keys in your vehicle, even at a gas station.
  • Park your vehicle in a well-lit area at night when not at home. 
  • Never hide a spare ignition key in your vehicle, including under floor mats, sun visor, etc.
  • Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a secure garage.
  • Never leave the vehicle running at any time when you’re not in it. This includes your driveway, while picking up friends, or while at a grocery store, or shopping mall.
CST 1016202-80 Copyright © Automobile Club of Southern California. All Rights Reserved.
The Automobile Club of Southern California is a member club affiliated with the American Automobile Association (AAA) national federation and serves members in the following California counties: Inyo, Imperial, Kern, Los Angeles, Mono, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Tulare, and Ventura.