Theft is a crime of opportunity. To someone trying to break into your vehicle, visibility means vulnerability. Make their work risky and difficult and you stand a good chance of stopping them before they can break in.

     — Lock your vehicle at all times. Doors should remain locked while windows and sunroofs should never be left opened or cracked open. Do not leave your unlocked vehicle running outside. 

     — All valuables should be out of sight. If removable, take all valuables with you. If it can’t be removed, store them in the vehicle’s trunk. (i.e. GPS, iPod, purses, change)

     — Obtain identification markings from valuables. Stereos, GPS systems, radar detectors etc. should all have their own serial or identification numbers. It’s good practice to write these numbers down in case it gets stolen for easy identification if it is found later. These numbers also assist officers in potentially finding your stolen property.

     — Always park in well-lit areas. Try to avoid parking in vacant poor-lit areas. Look for well-lit areas and attempt to park in garages if possible. NEVER LEAVE YOUR KEYS IN YOUR VEHICLE OUTSIDE.

     — Do not leave vital information in your car. Items such as birth certificates, titles, firearms or bank cards should never be left in a vehicle. 

If you become a victim of theft in Spring Hill:

• STEP 1: Call your local law enforcement agency to file a report. If possible, try to avoid moving the car and leave things in the order that you found them until police arrive. Dispatch: (913) 782-0720
• STEP 2: Contact your insurance carrier. When time permits, your insurance company should be informed immediately that your car has been broken into.
• STEP 3: Secure your personal information to prevent identity theft, identitytheft.gov If there is any chance your personal information has been compromised, take action immediately to prevent damage to your personal and credit history. (i.e. cancel checks/bank and credit cards)