Over the past three years the number of motor vehicles stolen, has remained far in excess of one thousand per year. The vehicles most targeted by criminals are: Toyota corolla and the Nissan Sunny, both sedan and station wagons. Here are some ways of avoiding vehicle theft.

Consumer Habits:

• Close your windows, lock your doors and take the keys with you.
• Check to make sure that your vehicle is locked when stopping or parking.
• Never hide a second set of keys in the vehicle.
• Park in well-lit areas and where possible, park in attended lots.
• Park with front wheels turned sharply toward the curb and apply your emergency brake to discourage towing.
• Activate any anti-theft devices that you may have, install a device that works best for you.
• Put all packages and personal items out of sight. Items left in the open might invite theft.
• Use your garage at home. Lock both your vehicle and the garage.
• Don't park on the outskirts of a shopping center, motel or other parking lots. Park near the entrance, especially if you will be leaving your car unattended for an extended period.
• Don't leave your registration papers in the vehicle, carry them with your. Important identification papers should not be left in the glove compartment.
• Keep your vehicle's vehicle identification number and a complete description of the vehicle in a safe place at home.
• Never leave your car running, even if you will only be gone for a minute.

Since there has been an increase in vehicular theft, many people have invested in security devices. Some of the devices available to the Jamaican consumer are:

1. The engine disabler/kill switch - This is a switch that when installed, usually in a concealed place and turned on cuts power to the starter and makes it impossible to move the vehicle. They are sold at the average cost of $8,000.
2. Armour Collar - This is a metal shield that locks around the steering column and prevents persons
   from tampering with the ignition switch or starting mechanism. Hot-wiring is prevented because the area is inaccessible.
3. Steering wheel lock (Bar lock) - This attaches to the steering wheel, thereby blocking ones ability to steer the vehicle. When used with a shield it makes it more difficult for the steering wheel to
   be cut and the bar lock to be removed. Average prices range from $900-$3,000.
4. Alarm System - Once it is armed, an anti-theft alarm system is wired to go off when any door, hood or trunk is opened. Systems fall in the region of $5,500-$10,000.