With the UO football season kicking off Saturday, Eugene Police say there are simple things people can do to help prevent an unhappy surprise when they return to their vehicle after the game.
With the large concentration of people, the area near Autzen Stadium may experience an increase in vehicle break-ins and thefts during the game. In past years, there have been vehicle break-ins associated with these events, which draw thousands of people from around the region. Anytime large numbers of vehicles are left unattended for extended periods of time, local thieves view it as a favorable opportunity.
Along with planning to use sunscreen and staying hydrated, fans attending the game are encouraged to think about crime prevention as they plan for their day of travelling and gathering with friends. By incorporating the tips below families help to protect themselves from unwanted surprises when they return to their vehicles.
THEFT FROM VEHICLE TIPS:
Theft from a vehicle is one of the most common crimes in our area. In almost all cases, the victims had left property visible in the vehicle. There is one clear message, if you want to keep someone from breaking into your vehicle, don't leave anything visible inside the vehicle! If you will follow this one simple rule, you will likely not become a victim of this crime.
• Be careful when leaving electronics in your vehicle, GPS, Ipod’s, etc. Even just a cord visible, indicates the likelihood such a device is inside. Your safest option is to leave anything you consider valuable at home.
• Don’t park and then put something in your vehicle’s trunk and then walk away from the vehicle. If someone saw you put it in, they can usually access your trunk by breaking into your vehicle and accessing the trunk release. Instead, put the item in the trunk before arriving at your location. This is especially important at hiking/running locations, sporting events and shopping malls
• Secure vehicles by rolling up the windows and locking doors (even on a hot day – it is better to take a few minutes to air out a hot car than to discover a theft)
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