During F1 events, keep your car safe

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Austin Police Department Auto Theft Interdiction Project reminds citizens and visitors to Austin during the weekend of events for the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix that car thieves are likely to be scouting parked vehicles, looking for items to steal while owners are away enjoying race and parties.

In Texas, it only takes 2 1/2 minutes for a vehicle to be burglarized and 5 minutes for a vehicle to be stolen, police said.

Take these precautions to protect your vehicles:

• Lock your car and take your keys – don’t make it easy for a thief to enter your vehicle
• Park in well-lit areas or attended lots – auto thieves do not like witnesses and prefer unattended parking lots
• Don’t leave valuables in plain view (purses/wallets, cell phones, laptops, electronics, money, jewelry, garage door opener, personal information, etc.) – don’t make your car a more desirable target and attract thieves by leaving valuables in sight
• Secure your valuables prior to arriving to your final destination – lock your valuables in the trunk, lock the trunk release, lock your glove box
• Obey traffic signs and don’t be distracted

The APD Auto Theft Interdiction Project programs are funded through the Texas Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority to reduce auto and burglary theft in the State of Texas. For more information, please contact APD Auto Theft Interdiction Project at 512-974-5265.