EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) -- To raise awareness and keep the community safe, the El Paso Police Department's Auto Theft Task Force is offering tips for securing your vehicle from car thieves or burglars, whether at home or in a parking lot. The tips are as follows: Watch where you park: Choose a parking space close to store entrances and well-lit areas, especially after dark. Mark your surroundings with nearby landmarks to make it easier to find your vehicle. Avoid parking next to large vehicles like vans or SUVs that could provide thieves with privacy. If you have a garage at home, use it to store your car whenever possible. Lock it up: It may sound like common sense, but unlocked cars are a major cause of theft. Always double-check that your windows are rolled up and your doors are locked before leaving your vehicle. Don’t forget to secure your sunroof, if you have one. Hide the goods: Never leave valuables such as phones, bags, electronics, or packages in plain sight. Lock items in the trunk or stash them out of view to avoid tempting thieves. Even something as small as a phone charger left visible can be an invitation for theft. Stay focused: Be mindful of your surroundings as you walk to and from your car. Keep your head up, avoid distractions like phone use, and have your keys ready. Once you’ve entered your vehicle, lock the doors immediately and drive away with confidence. Take your keys: This may seem obvious, but nearly half of all stolen vehicles have the keys left inside. Remember, it is also against the law to leave keys in an unattended vehicle. Always take your keys with you, even if you are just stepping away for a moment. To further protect vehicles, EPPD is offering free steering wheel locks to Hyundai and Kia owners at all Regional Command locations, while supplies last. These locks are provided by Hyundai America to enhance vehicle security, EPPD said. "By following these simple tips, residents can help safeguard their vehicles and reduce the risk of auto theft in the El Paso area," EPPD said. ...read more read less