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When thieves prey on innocent drivers, an incredible trip turns sour. One of the common ways they do that is through smashing and grabbing, which involves breaking through a barrier (car windows) while the vehicle pauses at a stoplight or is in slow traffic. These thieves then snatch whatever valuables you have, like jackets, handbags, laptops, and so on.
A smash-and-grab mainly counts on surprise and haste. The violent shattering of the passenger-side window renders the driver speechless for a few seconds, which is all the time that the thieves need to grab the belongings and depart the scene!
Although there is no way to prevent these thefts completely, there are certain common-sense precautions that can ensure your vehicle is less enticing to thieves.
The Prevention of Smash & Grabs Should Start Before You Leave Your Vehicle
Smash-and-grab robbers are not often professional criminals who devise elaborate plots to steal your belongings. The majority are haphazard opportunists who see something they like and storm in to grab it.
Ensure your belongings are out of view before stepping out of your vehicle since leaving anything exposed makes your car an instant target. So, always leave with your phone (and charging cords), purse or wallet, laptop (or bag), briefcase or backpack, grocery bags, MP3 player or other small devices, money, keys, or key fob.
Car Smash-and-Grabs Happen Out of Sight
The majority of smash-and-grabs robbers operate alone, and therefore the very last thing they want is a swarm of witnesses with mobile phones and pepper spray. As a result, aim to make your car as visible as possible by:
- Parking in busy pedestrian and vehicular activity areas
- Whenever you are far away from your vehicle after dark, park it in a very well-lit location or near lighting and choose a spot with an attendant.
Beware of Watchful Eyes
Check out for "suspicious conduct," including:
- People wandering up and down the parking lot lanes, peeking into vehicles, or touching doorknobs
- Cars driving slowly around car parks for long durations while scrutinizing parked autos
- Bicyclists and electric scooter riders roaming the parking lot
Discourage Thieves With Anti-Theft Measures
These crooks typically attempt to seek out simple thrills or get some little extra money with as little effort as possible. So, by rendering your car a difficult target, they lose the appetite to break in. As a result, constantly lock your doors, shut all windows and the sunroof, and carry your keys. The following precautions can also help:
- If you have a security system, turn it on.
- Never consider the center console or compartment as a mobile lockbox.
- Never leave your car on while unattended.
- Do not keep a spare key in or around your car.
- If local laws allow, try window tinting, making casing your automobile harder.
- Install aftermarket security features, such as wheel locks, to safeguard your automobile and alarm intruders that you have taken precautionary steps.
- Store your belongings well if you plan to leave them in the car, and don't leave them in your trunk for an extended duration.
Volvo Parts & Service in Burlingame
Our expert service crew at Volvo of Burlingame has dealt exclusively with Volvo automobiles for a long time, making us a high-quality and dependable repair facility. Unlike local mechanics, we offer outstanding customer service and high-quality auto repair to our clients. We acknowledge that your schedules are tight and that servicing needs rarely strike at a desirable moment. Therefore we provide a calming room, rental cars, and an online service planner. We also have a comprehensive variety of certified Volvo auto parts in Burlingame that you can order.
Whether you choose to book an appointment with our service department or complete the work independently, Volvo of Burlingame is here to serve you. Contact us for detailed information, and watch out for available service discounts and specials, which we update on a consistent schedule.
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