Broken Arrow Police remind people to lock their cars during National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month

July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month and Broken Arrow Police have been sending out reminders about ways people can protect their cars.

Many people use their cars every day—to get to work, grab lunch, or run errands. While they’re going through their to-do list, they may forget about other important tasks.

“No matter how long you expect to be away from your vehicle, even if it’s just a minute, make sure you lock your vehicle,” said Sergeant Sawyer of the Broken Arrow Police Department.

A Broken Arrow woman said she and her friends were once targeted by thieves while jogging.

“We all had our sports backpacks with us, in which we kept our extra equipment. I had a sentimental picture of my late grandmother, which touched me quite quickly and at the same time very much,” said Sara Haueter.

Haueter said the experience gave her a greater awareness of the security of her car and her belongings: “We make sure we hear that beep, that second lock.”

She wasn’t the only one who was extra careful with her car.

“So I leave it at home in the garage most of the time and drive around town in a regular Rogue, but I’m worried about theft,” said Chris Putman.

Putman was driving her 1997 Mitsubishi 3000 GT. She said it was a sought-after collector’s item that someone had tried to steal before.

“The alarms went off. I walked around the car and noticed someone had tried to use a crowbar to break open the hood of the car to get in and disable the alarm,” Putman said.

Broken Arrow Police said that in addition to locking their cars, some other security measures are equally important.

“You can make sure you park in well-lit and populated areas. You can also install security devices like a steering wheel lock or simply make sure your car alarm is working properly,” Sergeant Sawyer said.

Broken Arrow Police are asking people to always report vehicle thefts, big or small, so they can help.