Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SATURDAY, January 29, 1994                   TAG: 9401290109
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: B-5   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

AVOIDING CAR THEFT

Park in well-lighted areas.

Use anti-theft devices such as car alarms, steering wheel locks and fuel cut-off devices. They may not stop thieves all the time, but they do act as deterrents.

Always have keys in hand when approaching your car.

Never open car windows or doors for strangers.

If bumped by another car, stay in your car with the doors locked until police arrive. "If things don't look right, drive away," Peters said.

If a car deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Chances are good that the entire car or some of its parts were stolen.

If you are the victim of auto theft or carjacking, call the police. If you have tips on possible illegal auto operations, call the HEAT hot line: (800) 947-HEAT.