Car theft continues to be a significant concern for vehicle owners, and certain models have become prime targets. Recognizing this issue, the Maryland State Police, in partnership with the Vehicle Theft Prevention Council, is taking proactive steps to help residents protect their property. This weekend, on March 2nd and 3rd, 2024, Maryland Hyundai and Kia owners can receive a free steering wheel lock to deter theft and enhance vehicle security.
This initiative aims to address the rising concerns around Hyundai and Kia vehicles that utilize a physical key to start, making them potentially more vulnerable to theft. By providing free steering wheel locks, the Maryland State Police and the Vehicle Theft Prevention Council are empowering owners to take a simple yet effective preventative measure.
How to Claim Your Free Steering Wheel Lock
Maryland residents who own a Hyundai or Kia car that starts with a physical key are eligible to receive a complimentary steering wheel lock. To claim your free lock, simply visit the lobby of one of the 14 designated Maryland State Police Barracks listed below. Remember to bring your driver’s license and vehicle registration for verification.
Steering wheel locks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last, between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 2nd, and Sunday, March 3rd, 2024. Each eligible vehicle owner can receive one steering wheel lock. For specific addresses and contact details for each barrack, please visit mdsp.maryland.gov.
Participating Maryland State Police Barracks:
- Bel Air Barrack
- North East Barrack
- JFK Highway Barrack
- Rockville Barrack
- Forestville Barrack
- College Park Barrack
- Golden Ring Barrack
- Westminster Barrack
- Waterloo Barrack
- Glen Burnie Barrack
- Leonardtown Barrack
- Prince Frederick Barrack
- La Plata Barrack
- Annapolis Barrack
The Importance of Steering Wheel Locks in Vehicle Theft Prevention
“Vehicle theft is often an opportunistic crime,” explains Chris McDonold, Executive Director of the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council. “Utilizing anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks is a critical step in deterring thieves and protecting your vehicle.”
In Maryland, a vehicle is stolen approximately every 47 minutes. Statistics reveal that thefts frequently occur in residential areas during late evening and early morning hours, or in commercial zones during midday. Alarmingly, keys are left inside the vehicle in about 50% of car thefts, and 60% of stolen vehicles were left unlocked.
To minimize the risk of vehicle theft, the Maryland State Police and the Vehicle Theft Prevention Council urge all citizens to adopt these essential crime prevention habits:
- Always Lock Your Car: Make it a routine to ensure your car doors are locked every time you leave your vehicle, even for brief periods.
- Remove Keys and Key Fobs: Never leave your keys or key fobs inside the car. This is one of the easiest ways to prevent theft.
- Hide Valuables: Keep valuables out of sight. Thieves are less likely to target a vehicle if they cannot see anything tempting inside.
- Utilize Anti-Theft Devices: Employ anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks to add a visible layer of security and deter potential thieves.
The Vehicle Theft Prevention Council, established in 1994 by the Maryland General Assembly, is dedicated to reducing vehicle theft through public awareness campaigns, initiatives targeting juvenile vehicle theft, and supporting law enforcement and prosecution efforts. This free steering wheel lock program is another example of their commitment to vehicle theft prevention in Maryland.
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