How to deter car break-ins in Grand Rapids
Vehicle theft and break-ins are a growing issue throughout our nation. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, more than one million vehicles were reported stolen in 2022 alone. It’s not just the amount that’s unsettling, but also the sites of the crimes, as they frequently take place right where we live. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to deter car break-ins in Grand Rapids. Read what they are and discover how your smart home can assist you.
Take action to deter car break-ins and theft
Car break-ins and theft are typically opportunistic actions, so don’t entice thieves by leaving costly belongings in plain view or keys in a storage compartment. Always abide by these common-sense suggestions:
- Park in well-illuminated areas and choose lots with surveillance cameras or attendants if possible. Vehicles parked in more active areas are also less prone to be targeted
- Keep valuables hidden. If you must store costly items in your ride, put them in the trunk or glove compartment.
- Lock doors and raise windows, even when using your garage. You could fail to close your garage door, specifically during warmer months.
- Never store keys inside your car.
- Avoid leaving your vehicle running unattended. It only takes a matter of moments for a thief to steal it.
- Install deterrents like a steering-column lock or an alarm.
Video cameras help shield vehicles in Grand Rapids
Most prowlers will shy away from intruding on a vehicle or home if they spot surveillance cameras. You can make your cameras even more visible by selecting ones equipped with visible or audible deterrents. If a thief enters the detection zone, your camera will immediately react by triggering an alarm or engaging a light. An essential facet of home security, surveillance devices are an excellent tool for discouraging car break-ins, especially if you regularly leave vehicles on your driveway.
When choosing surveillance cameras, opt for features like:
- 1080p HD resolution for clear images
- Night vision, as many break-ins occur at darker hours. Even when using night vision, you’ll want to ensure you have ample lighting, especially near your garage.
- Wide viewing angles to obtain a more extensive view of your home’s surroundings, including your drive
- Advanced detection that can recognize the difference between pets, cars, and people
- Integrated motion-activated lighting
The leading surveillance will integrate seamlessly into your home’s security. If a camera notices dubious actions, you’ll get a prompt notification through the home security app on your phone. You can also review video footage from anywhere you are.
Safeguard your cars and your Grand Rapids home with Vivint
Deter car break-ins in your Grand Rapids community with the latest smart home tools from Vivint. Our outdoor cameras with built-in deterrence are excellent options to keep an eye on your cars. You’ll appreciate viewing camera footage quickly and easily with our app. Find out more about our cameras and our fully integrated home security systems by calling (616) 747-8419 today.