Auto theft on the rise, DC piloting free Airtag program

Washington, DC officials piloting free Airtag program

Unfortunately, winter weather isn’t the only thing you need to be prepared for this winter in the DMV. With winter coming, it’s important to be prepared on the road so you can keep you and your family safe this winter (and always). 

We shared a winter weather checklist last year to make sure your ready for your upcoming holiday road trips, and that list rings true even today. But, with automotive thefts on the rise in the District, it’s important to ensure your protecting your vehicle while you’re not driving it too. That’s where DC’s new Airtag pilot program comes in.

Mayor Muriel Bowser and acting policy Chief Pamela Smith introduced a program this week to give out free Airtags to people in communities with high levels of vehicle thefts, to help track their car down in case it’s stolen. Read more and see if you are eligible for the program here, or visit DC's website for more information. 

"Residents who live in Police Service Areas (PSAs) 106, 501, 502, 603, 605, and 606 can attend one of the following distribution events:

Tuesday, November 7 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 100 I (Eye) Street SE (PSA 106)
Wednesday, November 8 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 1309 5th Street NE (PSAs 501 & 502)
Thursday, November 9 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 3200 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Rear Parking Lot (PSAs 605 & 606)" (WUSA9)

With some models of Kias and Hyundais being particularly targeted for vehicle thefts due to vulnerabilities in recent model years, it’s also important to try to add anti-theft measures to your vehicle beyond just tracking devices like Airtags. 

Here are some tips to prevent vehicle theft before it happens:

• Be sure to lock your vehicle every time you leave it
• Install steering a wheel lock (Learn more about wheel locks and why you should care about them) 
• Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle
• Etch your VIN into your catalytic converter to deter theft

Preparing for winter is a multi-step process- ensuring your car is running in top condition, your emergency supplies are available and packed, and your car is equipped with anti-theft measures are all important steps to staying safe this season. Book now to ensure your vehicle is ready for harsh conditions. 

Other Relevant Blogs:

• What is the cost of replacing a catalytic converter?
• Catalytic converter theft on the rise in Washington, DC