Thwart theft from vehicles

Due to a recent increase in vehicle break-ins and theft-related losses statewide, Risk Management would like to remind you of some important safety tips to help prevent you from falling victim to these types of incidents.

1. Be sure all vehicle doors are locked and the windows secured before leaving a vehicle unattended.
2. When leaving a vehicle unattended, remove all valuables and belongings and take them with you whenever possible.
3. If unable to remove items, hide or conceal them  from view.

If an incident occurs and items are stolen from a vehicle, please report this immediately to Risk Management.

Vehicle break-ins typically occur in less than a minute. So even if you are only gone briefly, there is always a possibility that a passerby can take advantage of an unattended vehicle. Vehicles left overnight should be completely emptied as that is when most of these break ins occur.

It is important to remember that the university will not be able to reimburse you for personal items lost or stolen from a vehicle (e.g.  phone, wallet, keys).  

You may have coverage through your home, condo or tenant policy for these losses, but reimbursement may be subject to a deductible. Following the steps above will help prevent these types of costly incidents.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Risk Management at risk@ucanr.edu.

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