Tips for Preventing Vehicle Theft
Thefts of motor vehicles and electric bikes and scooters continue to be one of the most common types of crimes impacting the Drexel community, particularly on the University City campus. Drexel Public Safety provides the following general information about preventing motor vehicle thefts, and what to do if you are the victim of this crime.
Free Steering Wheel and Bicycle Locks
To help prevent theft, Drexel Police are providing a limited number of steering wheel locks and bicycle locks to students, faculty and staff.
- Steering Wheel Locks: Stop by Drexel Police Headquarters at 3219 Arch Street to arrange to pick up a steering wheel lock for your vehicle.
- Bicycle Locks: Register your bicycle or scooter at Drexel Police Headquarters at 3219 Arch Street and receive a bicycle lock.
Preventing Vehicle Thefts
- Always lock your vehicle, close all windows and sunroof, and take your keys.
- Use theft-deterrents such as:
- Steering wheel lock
- Car alarm or kill switch
- On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) lock
- Faraday bag to protect your keys
- Never leave your vehicle running and unattended.
- Park in busy, well-lit areas. Pick a parking spot where there is a lot of activity. Auto thieves prefer breaking into cars in isolated areas.
- Use Drexel Parking Services’ designated electric scooter racks throughout campus to properly secure your device. Do not lock your device onto trees, railings or any other property.
- Install a vehicle tracking and location system that can be activated after the vehicle is reported as stolen.
- Don’t leave spare keys in or on your vehicle. An experienced thief knows all the hiding places. Store spare keys elsewhere, such as your wallet or purse.
Alarms or anti-theft devices work; thieves are usually looking for the easiest target. However, don’t make the common mistake of assuming that if your car has an alarm or other anti-theft device, thieves won’t break in.
What to Do If Your Vehicle Is Stolen
Contact the Drexel Police Department at 215.895.222 or Philadelphia Police at 9-1-1 and be prepared to provide:
- License plate number and vehicle year, make, model, VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and color
- Date, time, location you last saw your vehicle
- Date and time you discovered your vehicle missing
- Whether you subscribe to a vehicle tracking service, such as Lojack or OnStar