LAKE HAVASU CITY – As the holiday season approaches, the Lake Havasu City Police Department urges the community to take proactive steps to prevent theft. Several recent incidents of theft could have been avoided by properly securing vehicles and personal belongings. Firearm thefts from vehicles are becoming more common.
According to the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Firearms Committee Firearm Security Fact Sheet – 2024, approximately 200,000 firearms are stolen yearly. The leading source for stolen guns is vehicles, and the rate of these thefts is triple what it was a decade ago. In most cases, the stolen firearm was not in a vehicle gun safe, and often the vehicle was not locked. FBI Crime Statistic data shows that vehicles parked at residences (in driveways, outside homes, etc.) are the most common source of stolen guns. It is important to always store guns securely in all locations.
Vehicle Security Tips
To help deter vehicle theft, please follow these recommendations:
1. Lock your vehicle doors and ensure all windows are fully closed before leaving your vehicle.
2. Never leave keys inside your vehicle, even if it is locked.
3. Park in well-lit areas to discourage criminal activity.
4. Remove all valuables from your vehicle, including garage door openers, cash, firearms, and electronics.
5. Consider installing motion-activated lights or security cameras in the area where you park regularly.
6. Install a firearm safe in any vehicle in which you carry your weapon.
Home Security Tips
In addition to safeguarding your vehicle, please take steps to protect your home:
1. Keep blinds or curtains closed to prevent potential thieves from seeing valuables inside.
2. Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places, like under a welcome mat. Use a lockbox or entrust a close friend or family member with a spare key.
3. Ensure all doors and windows are secured with functioning locks, including pet doors and the entry door between your garage and home. Make sure your garage door is closed and locked.
4. Store valuable items such as bicycles, tools, and yard equipment in a locked garage or shed. Install a safe in your home large enough to store all your firearms.
5. Record serial numbers and take photos of valuable possessions or engrave identifying information on them to assist law enforcement in recovery if they are stolen.
6. Make your home appear occupied when you’re away by having a neighbor collect mail or newspapers, using timers for indoor and outdoor lights, and securing exterior gates.
7. Install security cameras around your home to monitor and record suspicious activity.
8. Ask trusted neighbors to keep an eye on your home and report any unusual activity. If you’re leaving town, you can also contact the non-emergency dispatch line at (928) 855-1171 to request extra patrols or a vacation watch.
By following these guidelines, we can work together to keep our community safe during the holiday season. Stay vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect your property and loved ones.
If you observe any suspicious activity in the community, you are encouraged to call the Lake Havasu City Police Department at 928-855-1171 to make a report. Anonymous information can be called into Lake Havasu Silent Witness at 928-854-TIPS (8477). Additionally, you can report a concern on the Lake Havasu City website, www.lhcaz.gov
