Summit Police Issue Advisory Email on Auto Thefts

The Summit Police Department, via its Nixle email service, issued an advisory Friday afternoon warning residents to ensure their vehicles are secure. The alert follows a recent rash of auto thefts in the Hill City and in neighboring towns—and notes that most of the vehicles stolen in Summit were left unlocked and with keys in the ignition. 

It also offered insight into two types of crime and tips on how to stay safe.

Carjacking - stealing a car by force - has captured headlines in the last few years. Statistically, your chances of being a carjacking victim are very slim and preventative actions can reduce the risk even more. 

• Approach your car with the key in hand. Look around and inside before getting in. 

• When driving, keep your car doors locked and windows rolled up at all times. 

• Be especially alert at intersections, gas stations, ATMs, shopping malls, convenience and grocery stores - all are windows of opportunity for carjackers. 

• Park in well-lighted areas with good visibility, close to walkways, stores, and people.

• If the carjacker has a weapon, give up the car with no questions asked. Your life is worth more than a car. 

"Bump and Rob": A car, usually with a driver and at least one passenger, rear-ends or "bumps" you in traffic. You get out to check the damage and the driver or one of the passengers jumps in your car and drives off. If you're bumped by another car, there are a number of things you should do before you get out of your vehicle. 

• Look around and make sure there are other cars around. 

• Check out the car that's rear-ended you. 

• If the situation makes you uneasy, stay in the car and insist on moving to a police station or busy, well-lighted area to exchange information. 

• If you have a cell phone, contact the police. 

The advisory also urged residents to speak up if they see anything suspicious. Summit Police can be reached at 908-273-0051.