AUTO THEFTS: SIMPLE STEPS CAN HELP

Even though the number of auto thefts last year in Cape Girardeau was the lowest in the past five years, the value of the 102 stolen vehicles was more than half a million dollars. In addition to the inconvenience and expense when a car is stolen, there are other ramifications.

For example, only about 30 percent of all stolen autos in this country are recovered in operating condition. Most are shipped overseas by big-time theft rings or are stripped for parts. As a result, insurance companies pay out hundreds of millions of dollars, which, in turn, has an effect on automobile insurance premiums.

Then there are the costs for law enforcement agencies who deal with auto-theft cases. Incidentally, many police officers say the number of vehicles that are stolen each year could be reduced if owners would follow a few simple and commonsense precautions.

One piece of advice jumps out. Most auto owners who park their vehicles inside a locked garage probably never think of locking the vehicles as well. But, in fact, thieves often break into garages and steal cars. Police suggest locking your car any time it isn't occupied, even for short trips into a convenience store to pay for fuel. Cellular phones in particular are easy targets, along with purses and other valuable items.

Of the vehicles reported stolen in Cape Girardeau last year, many were unlocked. Most surprising of all, some even had the keys in the ignition.

In addition to locking an unoccupied car, motorists should turn the wheel sharply to the left or right. The reason is that some thieves don't break into a car to steal it. They simply tow the car away. If the front wheels are turned, it is difficult to tow a car, thanks to self-locking steering wheels.

And be sensible. Leaving packages or purchases in plain sight is little more than an invitation to a thief. Make sure the car's alarm system is activated. Park in well-lighted areas that aren't isolated.

The demand for stolen cars remains high. Some models are more popular than others. Station wagons, small vans and four-door sedans are the least likely to be stolen. But precautions should always be taken to prevent auto theft. The first line of defense includes prudent motorists who will make it more difficult for vehicles to be taken in the first place.