DON'T LOSE YOUR WAY - OR YOUR GPS

Don’t lose your way—or your GPS

Take precautions to avoid losing Global Positioning System to thieves

Oct. 15, 2008 (MINNEAPOLIS)   More drivers have discovered the benefits of having a Global Positioning System (GPS) in their vehicle to help them get where they want to go. Using a GPS is a great way to keep from getting lost, but police and crime prevention specialists want you to know that as these devices become more popular, they are also becoming a popular target for thieves.  To prevent vandalism to your vehicle and losing your GPS to thieves, practice these simple tips:

·         Keep the GPS out of sight when in your vehicle. The majority of thefts occur because someone can see it is there for the taking. Many GPS devices offer an option to mount it to the dashboard out of sight.

 

·         Take the GPS with you when your vehicle is unattended. Keeping the GPS with you is best, but you may also consider locking it your trunk.

 

 

·         Wipe away the telltale signs of a GPS. If your GPS is mounted to the windshield by suction cups, the rings they leave, even when the GPS is out of sight tells thieves you have one. Even if you take the GPS with you, thieves may vandalize your vehicle in hope of finding it. Keep something hand to wipe away the rings.

Many GPS manufacturers are also taking the lead in helping users protect their devices. Consider purchasing a GPS with an anti-theft feature that disables the device until a Personal Identification Number (PIN) is entered or the device is taken to a pre-programmed secure location.  Each time you turn on the GPS, you enter your PIN to unlock the device.  The PIN cannot be changed by resetting the device, but if you forget the PIN it will unlock at the pre-programmed location.  

Remember, most thefts from vehicles can be prevented.

·         Never leave valuables—purses, wallets, shopping bags, CDs, mp3s, cell phones, computers—in your vehicle where they present a target for thieves.

 

·         If you must leave valuable property in your vehicle—keep it out of sight or lock it in the trunk before you get to your destination.

 

·         Always lock your vehicle, close the windows, and don’t leave keys in the vehicle or hidden somewhere on the outside of the vehicle.  

 

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To Protect With Courage
To Serve With Compassion