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How to deter car break-ins in Killeen

March 05, 2025
Thief trying to break into a white vehicle in a residential setting

Vehicle theft and break-ins are a growing problem in the United States. As detailed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, over one million automobiles were recorded stolen in 2022 alone. It’s not just the number that’s unsettling, but also the location of the crimes, as they often happen right outside our front doors. Luckily, there are several precautions you can take to deter car break-ins in Killeen. Read what they are and discover how your smart home can improve protection.

Make efforts to deter car break-ins and theft

Vehicle theft and break-ins are usually crimes of opportunity, so don’t tempt thieves by leaving valuable possessions in clear view or keys in the coin tray. Always abide by these common-sense suggestions:

  • Park in well-lit locations and pick lots with guards or surveillance cameras if possible. Vehicles positioned in busier areas are also less prone to be targeted
  • Keep anything of value concealed. If you must leave costly belongings in your vehicle, place them in the trunk or glove compartment.
  • Engage locks and raise windows, even when parking in your garage. You might forget to shut your garage door, specifically during warmer times of the year.
  • Never keep keys in your car. 
  • Don’t leave your vehicle idling unattended. It takes only a few seconds for a criminal to steal it.
  • incorporate deterrents like a wheel immobilizer or an alarm.

Video cameras help safeguard cars in Killeen

Most thieves will avoid burglarizing a car or house if they notice surveillance cameras. Your cameras will be even more apparent if they feature active deterrents. If an intruder comes too close, your camera will actively reply by activating an alarm or brightening a light. A critical element of home security, video cameras are an outstanding tool for preventing car break-ins, especially if you typically park vehicles in the driveway.

When choosing surveillance systems, opt for features like:

  • 1080p high-definition resolution for detailed imaging
  • Night vision, as numerous break-ins occur at darker hours. Even when using night vision, you’ll want to make certain you have enough lighting, predominantly by your garage.
  • Wide viewing angles to enjoy a complete perspective of the front of your house, including your drive
  • Advanced detection that can distinguish the difference between cars, people, and animals
  • Incorporated motion-detection lighting

The leading video cameras will connect seamlessly into your automated home. Whenever a camera detects suspicious activity, you’ll get an immediate alert through the home security app on your mobile device. You’ll also be able to review video footage from wherever you are.

Safeguard your cars and your Killeen home with Vivint

Deter car break-ins in your Killeen area with innovative smart home devices from Vivint. Our video cameras with active deterrence are fantastic options to keep an eye on your cars. You’ll appreciate checking live and recorded footage swiftly and simply with our mobile app. Discover more about our video cameras and our fully integrated home security installations by dialing (254) 351-0495 today.