Warnings for Drivers

People are getting desperate and things could get worse before they get better. Here are a couple things I heard recently that you should be aware of...
First thing I heard: If you drop off a child at daycare every morning you could be a potential target.

What thieves are doing:
They watch for a woman dropping off her child or children at daycare. Often times mothers will leave the car running with the a/c or heat on (especially if it is a cold or hot day). The crook waits for you to run the kids in (which you think only takes a second). While you are inside they steal the purse you left on the seat...or (if you are having a really bad day) they may take the car too.

How you can reduce your risk
1.) Be aware of your surroundings...observe any persons, cars, bicycles, motorcycles, etc. (it is easy to make a quick get away on foot, cycle or bike)
2.) Don't get paranoid but ask yourself, 'is anybody watching me?' Be observant!
2.) DO NOT leave your vehicle running when you drop of the children.
3.) DO NOT leave your purse in the vehicle because it makes for easy pickins!

Second thing I heard: Be careful when you go shopping...there is yet another new way of ripping people off.

What thieves are doing:
Purse natchers are putting posters or cardboard on the back window of vehicles (SUVs are an easy target because of the rear wiper) to cause shoppers to get out and remove the blockage.
The average person gets in their car and starts it up...then looks in the rear view mirror. When we see something obstructing our view we get out (with the vehicle running). Once you are out of the vehicle they steal your purse (ladies are the main target) or your purchases. And if the vehicle is positioned so that they do not have to back out they may use it as a getaway car and that means they may be taking your toddler(s) with them, IF you left them buckled up in their car seat(s).

What you can do:
Be aware of your surroundings!
Walk around behind your vehicle and check to make sure the rear window is clear before you get in.
If you are in the vehicle and notice the rear window is partially blocked, be careful. Look to see if anyone is watching you.
Never leave your car running if you have to get out. (If you don't have to back out of a parking spot, leave the obstruction where it is until you reach the end of the parking lot).
Do not leave your wallet, purse or valuables in the vehicle if you have to get out to move a poster or pamphlet obstructing your view.