Car Security: You should be alarmed

Hide valuables if you can't take them with you- but remember that an important part of an alarm package is a visible deterrent- for instance a red flashing light on the dashboard or a window sticker indicating the presence of an alarm kit. Send a signal that your car will not be easily tampered with, and the average thief will move on. They're inherently lazy- so if a vehicle looks like it will pose a problem, they'll tend to find another one. Station wagon owners should consider a cargo-cover if their model doesn't come with one as standard, while truck owners can shop for a selection of lockable toolboxes.

Parking somewhere for a prolonged period of time? Why not empty your glovebox and console and leave them wide open- so anyone interested will see that there's nothing worth taking inside. It may save a potential thief from having to break your window to see for themselves.

Note that if you own an Acura Integra, Hyundai Tiburon, BMW 3-Series or Chrysler minivan, you should be alarmed- as these rides are some of the most commonly stolen in Canada. Consider using an alarm system in conjunction with a little common sense, and your vehicle and its contents are more likely to remain where you park them.
photo:Justin Pritchard, Jupiter images