The total number of car thefts in the United States might be sliding on a percentage basis, but it still totals over 1 million stolen each year. Protecting your personal vehicle from theft and burglary is often a matter of using common sense. Any action or device that can help make one car look more difficult to steal or steal from can encourage bad guys to move on.

You will find there are a number of things you can do to protect your car from theft. From simple, free actions to more costly devices, they can all add up to make your vehicle encourage thieves to take a pass. Some of the things you might want to do or consider to prevent theft include:

Locking doors – Auto burglars, in particular, just love finding cars that are unlocked. While they can get into locked cars, too, many tend to move on to easier marks.

Keeping valuables out of sight – Do not leave packages, electronics and other tempting items out in plain sight. This is just an open invitation for theft.

Parking in well lit areas – Thieves do not want to be seen. Bright lighting can discourage acts of theft.

Using security devices – Silent alarms, audible alarms and steering wheel locks can help stop thieves from getting away with your car.

Using tracking devices – Devices that enable law enforcement to find a vehicle if it has been stolen can lead to recovery. They might not prevent a theft, per se, but they can stop one in its tracks.

Car theft is still a serious problem in the United States. You can lessen your chances of being victimized though. Anything that discourages a would-be thief can help you on this front.