Thievery tops my angry list. It’s remarkable how violated, mad, sad (and so on) one feels when robbed. Nobody likes to feel that way. Nobody. Unfortunately, car theft and break-ins are all too commonplace.  Unbeknownst to many, we make it super easy for thieves to take what’s ours. Meh.

There are a few things we should remind ourselves regularly to keep thieves at bay. I’ve whipped up a few tips to help ward off those pesky thieves and keep your 4-wheeled baby safe.

Some tips are just common sense (however, it’s always good to remind ourselves now and then).

• Never leave your car running and unattended, even to dash into your home or a business.
• Never leave your keys in the car or ignition, even inside a locked garage.
• Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is in front of your home.
• Always park in a high-trafficked, well-lit area, if possible.
• Consider anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks or fuel cut-off switches.
• Have your vehicle identification number (VIN) etched into each piece of glass on the vehicle as a deterrent. An auto thief is less likely to steal it because of the time and money involved in replacing the glass to remove the car’s identity.
• Investigate the purchase of an auto alarm system if you live in a high-theft area or drive a theft-prone vehicle. Display an alarm decal near the door handle.
• If you park in a fee garage, take the pay-ticket with you. It’s the thief’s ticket out of the garage, too.
• If you use valet parking, leave just the ignition key with the attendant. Make sure no identifying information is attached to the key. Do the same when you take your car for repairs.
• Copy your licence plate and vehicle identification (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them on you with your driver’s licence. If your vehicle is stolen, police will need this information promptly.

According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, about $250 million is spent on police, health-care and court costs every year because of stolen cars.