'Tis the Season for Auto Thefts

LIVONIA, Mich., Dec. 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Holiday shoppers are often easy targets for vehicle thieves and carjackers. Help Eliminate Auto Thefts (H.E.A.T.) - Michigan's statewide auto theft prevention program and tip line - urges shoppers to consider a few simple safety tips to protect themselves and their property during the holidays:

• Be alert - Always be aware of your surroundings. As you approach your vehicle, avoid talking or texting on cell phones, digging for keys or juggling multiple packages.
• Parking - If you can, avoid shopping alone after dark. But if you must, park in a well-lit area with pedestrian traffic or in a lot with an attendant. If possible, avoid parking near objects that block your view of the surrounding area, such as dumpsters, bushes and large vans or trucks. Also avoid parking next to cars with tinted windows that you cannot see through.
• Remember where your car is parked - Walk directly to your car and do not spend unnecessary time wandering around the parking lot. Walk confidently and with purpose. 
• Always ask - If you're alone and don't feel comfortable walking to your car, don't hesitate to ask retail security personnel for an escort.
• Place items in trunk - If you must leave something in your vehicle, lock it in the trunk or place items out of sight. Do not leave packages on the seat of your car.
• Move your car - Move to another area of the parking lot if you return to your car in the middle of a shopping trip, even if it means giving up a prime spot. This will deter a thief who may have been watching you unload your purchases.
• Use common sense - Even if you are just going into a store for a quick errand, never leave your car unlocked or your vehicle running unattended.
• Keep passengers safe - Criminals are not timid about approaching people in their driveways. Take children and the elderly into the house first, then immediately unload all purchases from your car. Never leave vulnerable loved ones alone in a vehicle, even if you will only be gone "for a minute."
• Don't argue – If a carjacker wants your vehicle, let him have it. A vehicle isn't worth your life. According to Terri Miller, executive director of H.E.A.T., most carjackings involve a weapon. So don't resist or argue, instead get a good look at the carjacker and what he or she is wearing.
• Call the police immediately - If you witness an auto theft or carjacking, call 911 immediately. After you have informed local law enforcement, call H.E.A.T.'s 24/7 confidential tip reward line (1-800-242-HEAT) if you have any information regarding auto theft, insurance fraud or carjackings.

About H.E.A.T.
H.E.A.T. works with Michigan law enforcement agencies to follow-up on tips. Tipsters are awarded up to $1,000 if the tip leads to the arrest of or issuance of a warrant for a suspected car thief or a person suspected of auto theft-related insurance fraud. H.E.A.T. rewards up to $2,000 for information leading to the issuance of a warrant for a carjacking suspect. Rewards of up to $10,000 are issued if a tip results in the arrest and binding over for trial of a suspected theft ring or chop shop operators. The H.E.A.T. tip line is monitored by the Michigan State Police and funded by Michigan's auto insurance companies.

Follow H.E.A.T. on Facebook and on Twitter @1800242HEAT.

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SOURCE Help Eliminate Auto Thefts (H.E.A.T.)