The Seattle Police Department points out that cars can be stolen anytime but don't let cold weather or snow make you let down your guard. The snow will be with us until next week so it's best to be prepared and smart.
WHAT IS MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT?
Theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle. Motor vehicle theft is a crime of opportunity.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
-Be observant
-If you see something, say something!
-Report all crimes and suspicious activity immediately to the Seattle Police Department by calling 911!
-Organize and/or get involved with Block Watch!
Auto Theft Prevention Techniques:
• Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you’re away, even for ‘just a minute’, please remember this is illegal in Seattle and in Washington (SMC 11.70.160, RCW 46.61.600)
• Remove remote garage door openers from vehicle
• Always lock doors and roll up windows, even if the car is parked in front of your home
• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked
• If possible, park vehicle in a busy, locked, monitored and/or well-lit area
• Utilize anti-theft devices
• If possible, activate alarm
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Winter Weather Preparedness:
WINTER WEATHER PREPAREDNESS A RESOURCE FOR PERSONAL, HOME, AND COMMUTING PREPAREDNESS
1. Prepare your home for cold weather.
2. Build an emergency supply kit for home and car.
3. Do not drive unnecessarily.
4. Sign up for AlertSeattle at alert.seattle.gov
Preparing for Winter Storms:
• Be aware of winter storm forecasts. Listen to local radio stations or tune in to local news channels.
• Prepare your home for cold weather.
• Install storm windows.
• Insulate outside walls, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Wrap pipes, especially those near cold outer walls or in attics or crawl spaces.
• Repair leaks in the roof, around the doors and in the windows.
• Remember to keep objects at least three feet away from all heaters. If you have a kerosene heater, only fill it outside.
• Make sure your fireplace functions properly.
• Have rock salt and sand on hand for traction on ice.
During A Winter Storm:
• Wear several layers of loose fitting, light weight, warm clothing (rather than one layer of heavy clothing). Wear mittens rather than gloves. Wear a warm, woolen cap.
• Heat only the areas of your home you are using. Close doors and curtains or cover windows and doors with blankets.
• Use alternative heat methods safely. Never use a gas or charcoal grill, hibachi, or portable propane heater to cook indoors or heat your home.
• Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Be sure to eat regularly- food provides calories that maintain body heat.
• If you become trapped outside, get out of the wind and stay dry. Build a lean-to or snow cave if nothing else is available. Do not eat snow.
Driving and Commuting:
• Make sure someone knows where you are going. Stay on the main roads.
• If you are commuting using public transportation, plan for the possibility of not being able to get home. Carry some mobile emergency supplies with you in the winter months.
• Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle:
-Three day supply of water and non-perishable food that can be eaten without being cooked.
-A blanket or sleeping bag for each passenger
-A flashlight & batteries
-Cell phone & charger
-Shovel
-A sack of sand or kitty litter
-Booster cables
-Flare
-Coffee can with lid and toilet paper
