LIMESTONE, IL – Kankakee residents in neighborhoods off Tower Road are on high alert once again as reports of car burglaries have surfaced.
Last night, around 4 a.m., a person in a hood was caught on a Ring app video approaching a car and slowly opening an unlocked door, triggered by a security light overhead.
The incident follows a warning issued by the Kankakee Sheriff’s Office just a day prior, urging residents to secure their homes and vehicles, and report any suspicious activity.
No word has been released on the value of items lost in the attempt. If you have any information as to the burglaries over the weekend, please call CrimeStoppers at (815) 93-CRIME.
Here are some essential tips to protect your vehicle from theft:
- Lock Your Doors: Always lock all the doors and windows of your vehicle, even if you are just stepping away for a short period of time. Unlocked cars are easy targets for thieves looking for quick opportunities. Remember to double-check that your car is locked before leaving it unattended.
- Use Anti-Theft Devices: Consider installing visible deterrents such as steering wheel locks, electronic immobilizers, tire locks, pedal locks, or kill switches. These devices make it difficult for thieves to steal or drive away with your vehicle and can discourage them from attempting to do so.
- Park in Well-Lit and Secure Areas: Parking your car in well-lit areas, such as a busy street or a well-lit parking lot, can deter thieves as they are less likely to go unnoticed. If possible, park your car in a locked garage or a secured parking lot with surveillance cameras. Avoid parking in secluded or poorly lit areas, which may provide an opportunity for thieves to target your vehicle.
- Do Not Leave Valuables in Your Vehicle: Avoid leaving valuable items in plain sight inside your car. Thieves are more likely to break into a vehicle if they see valuable items, such as laptops, smartphones, or bags, inside. Always take your belongings with you or keep them in the trunk, out of sight.
- Use a Car Alarm and Tracking System: Installing a car alarm system with motion sensors, impact sensors, and a loud siren can be an effective deterrent against car thefts. Consider also installing a tracking system in your vehicle that allows you and law enforcement to locate your car in case of theft.
- Be Cautious of Key Fob Vulnerabilities: If your car has a keyless entry and ignition system that uses a key fob, be aware of potential vulnerabilities. Store your key fob in a signal-blocking pouch or a metal container that blocks signals when you are not using it. Consider disabling the keyless entry feature on your car if it is not necessary.
- Be Mindful of Social Media: Avoid sharing pictures or posts on social media that reveal the make, model, or location of your car. This information can be used by thieves to identify potential targets. Keep your online presence and personal information related to your vehicle private and only share it with trusted individuals.
- Keep Your Car Maintained: Regularly maintaining your vehicle can also help prevent car thefts. A well-maintained vehicle is less likely to break down, which can attract thieves looking for abandoned or vulnerable cars. Follow your car manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and promptly address any mechanical issues or repairs to keep your vehicle in good condition.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice any suspicious activity or individuals loitering around parked cars in your neighborhood, report it to the authorities, such as the local police or sheriff’s office. Your vigilance can help prevent car thefts and keep your community safe.
