Tips Tuesday: Operation Safe Driver Week
July 17, 2025
Tips Tuesday: Hurricane Preparedness
July 30, 2025
| 7-23-25 July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, a timely reminder that vehicle security is everyone’s responsibility. Each year, thousands of U.S. drivers are affected by vehicle thefts, and Florida ranks third in the nation, with more than 46,000 thefts reported in 2023 (source). Whether you’re commuting, visiting a project site, or running errands, small changes in your routine can help prevent vehicle theft and promote a safer Florida for all. Raising Internal Awareness: No matter what office you officially call ‘home,’ we all can play a role in supporting safety Everyone can help reduce vehicle theft risks, and it begins with our own parking lots. Print and post the attached internal Vehicle Theft Prevention poster in your office space to remind team members of simple but effective steps to secure their vehicles. Whether you’re heading to a meeting, site visit, or leaving for lunch, remember: Take your keys with you, even when stepping away briefly. Close and lock all doors and windows. Avoid leaving bags, electronics, or valuables in plain sight. Watch this quick NHTSA video on how to prevent vehicle theft: Watch Here In the Community: Grass-roots outreach efforts greatly improve safety messaging effectiveness – these one-on-one conversations have far-reaching impacts Our conversations and actions can help reduce crime and support safer streets across Florida. This summer, as you attend events or community meetings, help others stay protected: Encourage family and friends to lock their vehicle’s doors and windows and park in well-lit areas. Support local law enforcement and neighborhood watch efforts aimed at reducing theft. Share safety tips and resources on social media or with your neighborhood group. Check out NHTSA’s National vehicle Theft Prevention Month Toolkit for additional information. In Your Everyday Life: Even when you’re not ‘on-the-clock,’ there are ways to improve safety culture in Florida Vehicle theft can happen in less than a minute. In fact, more than 850,000 vehicles were stolen across the U.S. in 2024, which is the equivalent of one every 37 seconds (Source: NHTSA). Small actions make a big difference: Never leave your car running unattended. Park in areas that will be well-lit when you return, not just when you arrive. Shade is nice on a hot, summer day, but it’s important to park in an area that will be well-lit after the sun goes down. According to the Florida Sheriffs Association, it is important to be aware of vehicle theft that can occur at gas stations. While pumping gas, remove your keys, lock the doors, and don’t let your cell phone distract you. Keep your fuel tank from running too low to avoid being stranded in an unfamiliar or unsafe area. If your vehicle is stolen: Call local law enforcement immediately. Be ready with your vehicle’s: Make, model, year, color License plate number Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Contact your insurance company to file a claim. Thank you for staying alert and leading by example this July. Together, we can reduce vehicle theft and keep Florida’s roads safer for everyone. Every conversation makes a difference. Reminding others to stay alert could prevent the next theft. Savannah & the Target Zero Team |
