Vehicle Theft Is Rising in Texas; Expert from LoJack Offers Sound Theft Protection Advice

WESTWOOD, MA - February 5, 2008; Vehicle theft is on the rise in the state of Texas, according to a recent report issued by Allstate Insurance. Specifically, the number of Allstate insured vehicles in Texas that were stolen and never recovered, jumped 11 percent from 2006 to 2007. The report also states that an increasing number of full-size trucks and SUVs are "taken into Mexico and used to transport narcotics and human smuggling."

In an effort to help consumers learn what they can do to protect their trucks and SUVs from this growing problem, theft protection expert Patrick Clancy, Vice President of Law Enforcement for LoJack Corporation and former police sergeant, is available to offer vehicle theft protection tips and strategies.

Clancy offers the following advice: "With this type of targeted vehicle theft, consumers need to do everything possible to ensure their trucks and SUVs do not become the next 'easy target.' At LoJack, we recommend that vehicle owners take a layered approach to vehicle theft protection."

Tips: LoJack's Layered Approach to Vehicle Theft Protection: Below are the three important layers of theft protection recommended by LoJack:

First step: Use Common Sense Measures. Never leave keys in the car with the engine running. Don't hide a spare key in the vehicle. Close all windows and lock all doors when leaving your vehicle. Park in a well-lit area and, when at home, keep your car in the garage. Don't leave valuables visible in your car.

Second step: Use Theft Prevention Products. A thief is less inclined to steal your car if it has visible and audible warning devices like a wheel lock or alarm system. Immobilizers-which include smart keys, kill switches and fuel cut-off devices-offer another means of protection.

Third step: Use a Tracking and Recovery System. Since thieves can typically disarm most theft prevention devices, recovery systems provide the peace of mind that you'll get your car back -- often quickly -- in the event it is stolen. The most effective systems are directly integrated into law enforcement, use radio frequency technology, which has proven to be optimal for recovering stolen cars and motorcycles, and are covert so they cannot be disengaged.

For more information on theft prevention, please visit LoJack's Knowledge Center for Vehicle Security at www.lojack.com.