How to deter car break-ins in McAllen
Auto theft and break-ins are an ongoing concern in our country. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, in excess of one million automobiles were recorded stolen in 2022. It’s not merely the amount that’s troubling, but also the sites of the crimes, as they often happen right outside our homes. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to deter car break-ins in McAllen. See what they are and learn how your smart home can help.
Make efforts to deter car break-ins and theft
Auto theft and break-ins are typically crimes of opportunity, so don’t entice unscrupulous actors by leaving costly possessions on the seat or keys in the coin tray. Always abide by these practical tips:
- Park in well-lit areas and choose lots with visible cameras or security personnel whenever possible. Vehicles parked in busier places are also less prone to be stolen
- Keep anything of value out of sight. If you must leave pricy items in your car, move them to the glove compartment or trunk.
- Engage locks and close windows, even when parking in your garage. You might overlook lowering your garage door, particularly during warm summer evenings.
- Never store keys within your automobile.
- Never leave your vehicle idling unattended. It only takes a couple seconds for someone to take it.
- Implement deterrents like a wheel immobilizer or an alarm.
Outdoor surveillance helps protect vehicles in McAllen
Many criminals will avoid breaking into an automobile or residence if they see video surveillance. Your cameras will be even more apparent if they feature visible or audible deterrents. If a thief gets too close, your camera will immediately respond by engaging light or triggering an alarm. An essential facet of home protection, video cameras are an effective tool for deterring car break-ins, particularly if you often keep vehicles in the driveway.
When picking video cameras, look for features like:
- 1080p HD resolution for detailed imaging
- Night vision, as countless break-ins happen at darker hours. Even when using night vision, you’ll want to make certain you have enough lighting, especially near your garage.
- Wide viewing angles to get a full picture of your home’s exterior, including your drive
- Smart detection that can recognize the difference between pets, cars, and people
- Integrated motion-activated lighting
The best video cameras will integrate effortlessly into your home’s security. When a camera spots dubious activity, you’ll get an immediate notification through the home security app on your mobile device. You can also view video footage from wherever you are.
Safeguard your autos and your McAllen home with Vivint
Deter car break-ins and theft in your McAllen area with the latest smart home devices from Vivint. Our outdoor cameras with integrated deterrence are excellent options to keep watch over your cars. You can view video streams quickly and easily with our app. Find out more about our surveillance options and our fully integrated home security installations by calling (956) 303-1646 today.