theif breaking into car

Theft Prevention and Auto Safety

The San Jac Police Department conducts frequent patrol providing a safe and secure environment for our students and employees. It is important that everyone take steps to prevent theft and ensure their safety. Below are some helpful safety tips.

 

Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention

Motor vehicle theft can affect all car owners. Take a look at how you can take proactive measures to prevent becoming a victim.

Common Items Stolen

The most common items stolen out of motor vehicles include but are not limited to:

  • Electronics and their accessories such as smartphones, GPS devices, charging cables
  • Car audio systems
  • Personal items like purses, wallets, clothing items and backpacks
  • Cash/loose change

Prevention Strategies

  • Park in a well-lit area.
  • Use your emergency brake when you park.
  • Always lock your vehicle and take your keys.
  • Never leave your car running and unattended.
  • Keep your truck and glove box locked at all times.
  • Keep your valuables out of sight or take them with you.
  • Give the parking attendants the ignition (valet) key only.
  • Use an anti-theft device whenever you leave your vehicle.
  • Park with your wheels turned toward the curb to prevent unauthorized towing.

Catalytic Converter Theft Prevention

Catalytic converter theft has been a growing problem in recent years. The theft of a catalytic converter not only causes financial losses for the owners but can also lead to environmental pollution and increased carbon emissions. 

There are several ways you can protect your motor vehicle from catalytic converter theft, including physical barriers, security devices, and marking systems. Take a look at our video for more information on preventing catalytic converter theft. 

Do's and Don'ts to Prevent Parking Lot Accidents

 

Do

Drive slowly. With the possibility of pedestrians crossing your path or a car backing out in front of you, driving slowly is one of the best ways to avoid an accident in a parking lot.

Don’t

Use a cell phone while driving in parking lots.

Do

Park in a well-lit area. This will help you to be more aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Don't

Ignore parking rules. Although traffic laws differ in parking lots, safety regulations, such as speed limits, stop signs and crosswalks may be enforced. 

5 Facts About Parking Lot Accidents

Parking lot accidents are common and can happen to even the most careful drivers. To help reduce the risk of parking lot accidents on campus, here are five causes of parking lot crashes you should keep in mind while driving.

  1. Backing Out

    Drivers backing out of a spot may face additional blind spots when parked between two vehicles.

  2. Poorly Maintained Facilities

    Poorly maintained parking areas may have uneven surfaces and faulty lighting. Park near a well lit area at night if possible.

  3. Private Property

    Reckless driving and accidents are common on private property such as parking lots since traffic laws are not enforceable.

  4. Congestion

    Crowded parking lots may pose greater risks due to higher car and pedestrian traffic.

  5. Finding a Spot

    Looking for a vacant spot can be difficult in a crowded lot, so drivers tend to focus more on finding a space than other drivers or pedestrians.

Report an emergency

Contact Us: 

From cell phone: 281-476-9128
From campus phone: ext. 5555
Hearing Impaired/Silent text messages: 713-469-1071
Non-emergency phone number: 281-476-1820