Protect Valuables

Backpacking

While hikers, paddlers and other outdoors types are off having high times, their vehicles are easy pickings for trailhead bandits.

Trailhead break-ins are largely crimes of opportunity and are usually committed by teenagers who live within 50 miles of the crime scene, surveys show.

The following tips can help prevent an unhappy ending to your next trail. Before you leave your vehicle:

Leave your wallet or purse at home. Carry the cash you need and any credit or calling cards.

Do your packing before leaving home. This way you leave no valuables behind in your car.

Call rangers to see if your chosen trailhead has a high incidence of trouble. If it does, change your destination.

If possible, use an old “beater” vehicle to get to the trailhead. Latemodel luxury sedans or new sports utility vehicles are prime candidates and give the impression of valuables inside.

If your vehicle is a recent model and you have no choice but to leave it at the trailhead, make sure that your insurance company will cover any instances of vandalism.

As always, notify a responsible person of your destination, trailhead and expected time of return. If your vehicle is damaged and undrivable, you will be glad you did.