Vehicle Theft Prevention and Safety Tips

Regardless of your vehicle’s make or model, the Clayton Police Department encourages all vehicle owners to remain vigilant and practice proactive theft-prevention measures. Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of vehicle break-ins and theft.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a motor vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds in the United States.

Theft Prevention Tips

To help protect your vehicle and belongings, we strongly recommend the following:

• Park in a secure garage or a well-lit area whenever possible

• Close and lock all windows and doors

• Remove valuables such as phones, wallets, electronics, purses, bags, and shopping items from your vehicle

• Avoid leaving items in plain view—even for short periods

• Always remove keys, key fobs, remotes, spare keys, and valet keys from your vehicle

• Never leave your vehicle unattended while the engine is running

  • Not all remote-start systems prevent a vehicle from being driven away without the key

If You See Suspicious Activity

If you witness someone looking into or breaking into vehicles:

• Call the police immediately

• Do NOT confront the individual(s)

These crimes often involve suspects who may be armed and should be considered dangerous. Instead, focus on observing and reporting details such as:

• Number of suspects

• Clothing descriptions

• Direction of travel or escape

Free Steering Wheel Locks

The Clayton Police Department provides free steering wheel locks to owners of vehicles equipped with key-start ignitions.

Availability:

• Clayton Police Department front office

• Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Requirements:

• Proof of Clayton residency

• Current vehicle registration