A car is stolen every 32 seconds in this country. Two-thirds of the thefts occur at night, and over half are in residential neighborhoods. You can make it tougher for a would-be thief by taking some precautions that everyone knows, but may ignore.

• Make it a habit to lock your car and pocket the key. Never leave the key in the ignition.
  
• Put your car in the garage at night and lock your garage.
  
• Write down your license plate number and check your plates now and then. Never leave the title or registration in the car.
  
• Consider commercial anti-theft devices, which are priced from $20, particularly if you leave your car unattended all day. Police will help you evaluate the different possibilities and tell you where they may be purchased. Some recommended devices include:
  
  • Kill switch (car won't start unless hidden switch is activated).
    
  • Alarm system (loud warning sounds an alert if car if tampered with or jostled).
    
  • Crook lock (bar locks steering wheel to brake pedal).
    
• If your vehicle is stolen despite the precautionary measures you have taken, contact the police immediately. Be able to provide them with an adequate description (make, model, color) along with the license plate number, VIN number, and any other distinguishing characteristics.

Cars are stolen primarily for the resale value of the vehicle or its part, such as doors and tires. The Jackson Township Police Department will sign you up for the STOP AUTO THEFT program. With the S.A.T. sticker in your window an officer will pull your car over during the hours of 1 a.m. - 5 a.m. E-Mail Chief Harley Neftzer for further details.