When leaving a vehicle at Reno area parks and trailheads, use these tips to help prevent break-ins and theft of your valuables. Don't be an easy target and let thieves ruin your day of enjoying the great outdoors. These tips are brought to us by the Washoe County Sheriff's Office and Washoe County Parks.
Top Tips for Avoiding Vehicle Burglary
- Leave valuables at home so there's nothing to steal. Otherwise, take them with you or lock them in the trunk or glove compartment.
- Lock your car. According to the Sheriff's Office, leaving vehicles unlocked is still one of the most common things people do to help thieves get into their cars.
- Roll up windows completely. Even a small opening makes it much easier for someone to break in.
- Do not leave anything in plain sight on seats or the floor, including coins, CDs, docking stations, cables, etc. Leave no clues that valuables might be hidden in the car.
- Do not stash stuff under jackets or behind seats - thieves know those hiding places.
- Thieves watch parking lots - hide valuables before parking at your destination.
- Set the car alarm and use any other anti-theft devices. Thieves don't like these and will move on to an easier target.
If you become a victim or observe suspicious activity, contact the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction in the area where the incident occurred. Here are some non-emergency phone numbers. Do not use 911 unless there is an immediate threat to your safety.
- Reno Police - (775) 334-2121
- Sparks Police - (775) 353-2231
- Washoe County Sheriff - (775) 785-4629
- Nevada Highway Patrol - (775) 688-2500
Sources: Washoe County Parks, Washoe County Sheriff.
