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How to deter car break-ins in Olympia

March 05, 2025
Thief attempting to break into a white car in a residential area

Car theft and break-ins are a growing problem in the United States. As detailed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, more than one million vehicles were recorded stolen in 2022. It’s not only the quantity that’s unsettling, but also where the crimes take place, as they’re frequently right outside our front doors. Luckily, there are several actions you can take to deter car break-ins in Olympia. Find what they are and learn how your smart home can help.

Take steps to deter car break-ins and theft

Vehicle theft and break-ins are usually opportunistic crimes, so don’t entice thieves by leaving keys within your vehicle or costly belongings in clear view. Always adhere to these common-sense suggestions:

  • Park in well-lit spots and choose lots with video cameras or security personnel when possible. Vehicles parked in more active areas are also less likely to be singled out
  • Keep valuable possessions out of sight. If you need to keep expensive belongings in your car, move them to the glove compartment or trunk.
  • Engage locks and shut windows, even when parking in your garage. You might overlook closing your garage door, specifically during warm summer evenings.
  • Never store keys in your automobile. 
  • Never leave your car running with nobody inside. It requires only a few seconds for a thief to take it.
  • Implement deterrents like a wheel immobilizer or an alarm.

Video cameras help safeguard vehicles in Olympia

The majority of prowlers will shy away from burglarizing an automobile or home if they notice video surveillance. You can make your surveillance components even more noticeable by selecting those equipped with visible or audible deterrents. If a burglar gets too close, your camera will immediately react by triggering an alarm or engaging a light. A critical facet of home protection, video cameras are an outstanding tool for preventing car break-ins, particularly if you typically keep vehicles in the driveway.

When picking video cameras, opt for features like:

  • 1080p high-def resolution for precise imaging
  • Night vision, as countless break-ins happen at darker hours. Even with night vision, you’ll want to ensure you have adequate lighting, predominantly near your garage.
  • Broad viewing angles to enjoy a more extensive perspective of your home’s surroundings, including your driveway
  • Innovative detection that can distinguish the difference between cars, people, and animals
  • Incorporated motion-sensing lighting

The best surveillance will connect easily into your smart home. When a camera detects dubious activity, you’ll get a prompt warning via the home security app on your phone. You can also check recordings or live feeds from wherever you are.

Safeguard your autos and your Olympia home with Vivint

Deter car break-ins and theft in your Olympia neighborhood with innovative smart home tools from Vivint. Our surveillance cameras with active deterrence are outstanding options to keep an eye on your autos. You’ll enjoy viewing live and recorded footage rapidly and easily with our mobile app. Learn more about our cameras and our fully integrated home security installations by dialing (360) 996-1195 today.