July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 740,000 people fall victim to vehicle theft each year. Dallas County Sheriff Chad Leonard says preventing your vehicle from being stolen can be as simple as using common sense, “Most of the time the cars that we deal with that have been stolen had the keys left in the ignition. It’s as simple as taking care of your own stuff, reminding your kids that are driving to take the keys out and take them with them. Common sense stuff like that.”

Other tips recommended by the NHTSA include parking in well-lit areas if possible, close all windows and lock your doors, and don’t leave any valuables in plain sight.  If you do find that your vehicle has been stolen, contact local law enforcement and your insurance provider immediately. Information like your license plate number, VIN number, and any other characteristics unique to your vehicle can go a long way to recovering it.