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As Woodward Dream Cruise Focuses Attention on Cars, HEAT Says Drivers Still Aren't Taking Simple Precautions Against Vehicle Theft

16 August 2000

As Woodward Dream Cruise Focuses Attention on Cars, HEAT Says Drivers Still Aren't Taking Simple Precautions Against Vehicle Theft

    LIVONIA, Mich. - A sea of cars will stream up and down Woodward Avenue this 
weekend, celebrating the 6th annual Woodward Dream Cruise.  While the 30,000 
classic cars will cause quite a traffic jam, this represents only half of the 
60,000 vehicles stolen in Michigan every year. HEAT reminds dream cruisers this 
weekend that every vehicle -- from the '56 Chevy to the '96 Accord -- is 
vulnerable to auto theft, and that following a few simple theft prevention tips 
could mean the difference between cruisin' or losin' your favorite vehicle.

    "180 vehicles are stolen in Michigan every day -- that's seven cars being
ripped off every hour.  With all the attention cars get in the metro Detroit
area, drivers are still forgetting to take simple auto theft prevention
measures," says Terri Miller, director of HEAT(R).  "By following a few simple
tips, and calling 800-242-HEAT when they have information on auto theft,
drivers across metro Detroit can make a difference in the fight against this
costly crime."

    HEAT(R) reminds Dream Cruisers this weekend that following these simple
theft prevention tips could be the difference between cruisin' or losin' your
favorite vehicle:

    *  Remember to lock your doors, remove your keys from the ignition and
roll up the windows when your car is parked.
    *  A second layer of auto protection is recommended -- such as audible
alarms, steering wheel locks, theft deterrent decals and VIN window etching.
    *  Never leave your running vehicle unattended -- not even for a minute as
you run into a store.
    *  Don't leave valuables, such as cellular phones and planners, on the car
seat.  Store these items out of view.
    *  Report what you know about auto theft to your local police department
and HEAT's confidential tip-reward line, 800-242-HEAT.