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How to deter car break-ins in Wausau

March 05, 2025
Thief breaking into a white automobile in a residential neighborhood

Auto theft and break-ins are a continuing problem in the United States. As detailed by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, more than one million automobiles were reported stolen in 2022. It’s not just the quantity that’s unsettling, but also where the crimes unfold, as they’re typically right outside our homes. Fortunately, there are several precautions you can take to deter car break-ins in Wausau. See what they are and explore how your smart home can improve protection.

Take action to deter car break-ins and theft

Car break-ins and theft are typically crimes of opportunity, so don’t lure unscrupulous actors by leaving pricy belongings in plain view or keys in a storage compartment. Always abide by these sensible guidelines:

  • Park in well-lit areas and choose lots with attendants or video cameras when possible. Vehicles parked in busier areas are also less prone to be targeted
  • Keep valuables out of sight. If you have to store pricy things in your car, move them to the glove compartment or trunk.
  • Lock doors and raise windows, even when parking in your garage. You might fail to close your garage door, specifically during warmer times of the year.
  • Never store keys in your vehicle. 
  • Don’t leave your vehicle running without you inside. It requires only a matter of moments for a thief to steal it.
  • Install deterrents like a car alarm system or a wheel immobilizer.

Surveillance cameras help safeguard cars in Wausau

Most thieves will shy away from breaking into an automobile or home if they see video surveillance. Your cameras will be even more visible if they include audible or visible deterrents. If an intruder enters the detection zone, your camera will actively reply by activating an alarm or brightening a light. An essential facet of your property’s protection, video cameras are an outstanding tool for discouraging car break-ins, specifically if you typically park vehicles in the driveway.

When choosing surveillance systems, look for features like:

  • 1080p high-def resolution for precise imaging
  • Night vision, as countless break-ins happen in low-light conditions. Even when utilizing night vision, you’ll need to ensure you have adequate lighting, particularly near your garage.
  • Wide viewing angles to obtain a full picture of the front of your house, including your drive
  • Innovative detection that can recognize the difference between pets, cars, and people
  • Built-in motion-activated lighting

The best surveillance will connect seamlessly into your automated home. When a camera detects questionable actions, you’ll get an instant warning via the home security app on your mobile device. You’ll also be able to review live feeds or recordings from any location.

Protect your vehicles and your Wausau home with Vivint

Deter car break-ins in your Wausau area with the latest smart home equipment from Vivint. Our video cameras with active deterrence are outstanding options to keep an eye on your cars. You’ll like checking video streams rapidly and effortlessly with our app. Find out more about our surveillance options and our fully integrated home security plans by calling (715) 662-6232 today.