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Tens of thousands of people will be flocking to Austin from October 4-13 to attend the Austin City Limits music festival. Every year, Austin police issue warnings and reminders to citizens to be on the lookout for car burglaers and thieves scouting parking lots during the event.
Vehicular crime is a crime of opportunity and by taking away this opportunity, you can minimize the chances of becoming a victim, police say.
“It only takes three minutes for your vehicle to be burglarized or stolen. It takes less than a minute to steal the car if a key is locked inside. Every year, thousands of people lose important identification documents, money, electronics, transportation, and expose themselves to ongoing identity theft and other types of crime that begin with vehicle burglary or auto theft,” APD says in a press release.
Consider these suggestions to reduce the risks:
- Lock your car and take your keys – especially if you have a keypad or key-less entry. These are big draws for car thieves because the odds are in their favor if there is a key locked inside. Don’t make it easy for a thief to drive away in your vehicle.
- Park in well-lit areas or attended lots – auto thieves do not like witnesses and will avoid these areas. Take a picture of where you parked to avoid confusion when you’re ready to go home.
- Don’t leave valuables in plain view (purses/wallets, cell phones, keys, laptops, electronics, money, jewelry garage door opener, etc.) Don’t make it profitable and worthwhile for thieves. Never leave your ID or personal documents inside unattended.
- If you must lock valuables inside, move them to the trunk, glove-box, or out of sight BEFORE you arrive and park. Thieves wait for and watch those who park, and they blend into the scene.
- Austin is a hands-free cell phone zone. Don’t talk or text while driving, unless it’s hands-free. Don’t drive distracted – It can wait. There are a lot of pedestrians, barricades, and narrowed lanes around the event. Watch for pedestrians and other vehicles.
- Once you’re walking, don’t walk distracted! Keep your eyes on others who may want to grab your purse or phone while you’re unaware of surroundings.
- Use crosswalks, obey traffic signals and don’t cross over barricades. They exist entirely for your safety. Watch out for the cars on the road who may not be watching for you.
