As Chief of Police, I would like to ask the citizens of Vicksburg to do all you can to secure your vehicles and personal belongings. We have seen an increase in auto burglary crimes occur in our beautiful city, being committed by whomever for whatever reason. To prevent becoming a victim of an auto burglary, the responsibility ultimately falls upon each of us individually to secure our vehicles.

I have also met with some representatives from several hotels across our city, advising them of some security measures and to also contact the police if they see any suspicious persons or vehicles on their property.   

Safety and security is an issue that I ask everyone to take seriously. It only takes a second to lock your vehicle.  To protect your vehicle from a crime of opportunity, take some precautionary measures to deter any potential thieves.  Implementing these simple precautionary measures can reduce the risk of victimization of an auto burglary. 

Stow all valuables before you park – thieves are watching parking lots looking for people who leave valuables in their cars. Stow valuables out of sight before you park so not to attract the attention of thieves.

Never leave “cash” visible – Leaving cash visible in your vehicle can increase the risk of victimization of a property crime.

Never leave your keys in your car – Take your keys with you every time. Do not make it easy for a thief to take advantage of you or your personal property.

Never leave valuables in plain sight – Do not leave purses, wallets, laptops, expensive sunglasses, cell phones, firearms and other valuables in your vehicle. Stow them out of sight or inside your home. Lock your valuables in the trunk or take them with you.

Lock your vehicle – Always lock your doors and windows. Don’t make you or your property an easy target for criminals.

Activate your vehicle alarm – Secure your windows and doors

Park in plain sight – Always remember to park your car in a safe and visible location. Thieves will act even in broad daylight if they can find cover.

Hide all electronic devices and cords – Avoid unintentional visual temptations for thieves, which include leaving chargers for phones and gadgets as well as holsters for navigational equipment in plain sight.

Secure tools/equipment properly – When equipment or tools must be kept in a vehicle, use a strong-walled, tamper proof box that can be bolted down and secured with heavy duty locks. Do not assume a box is secure because it is heavy.

Do not leave your vehicle unattended while idling – Even if you are just making a brief stop, always take your keys with you. Thieves tend to frequent convenience store parking lots and gas stations, where people may leave their cars running and keys in the ignition. During cold weather, it might be tempting to let your vehicle idle to warm up.

Be proactive in your efforts when securing your vehicle and belongings.  These simple and effective safety tips can reduce the likelihood of you becoming a victim to an auto burglary. 

Milton Moore is the chief of the Vicksburg Police Deptartment.