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Avoid The Carburglar

When visiting the preserves, don't fall victim to The Carburglar. He's the crook who wants to steal all the stuff you left in plain view in your car. 

The Carburglar wants your wallet, purse and anything else valuable you leave out in the open while you're enjoying the preserves. 

He's as crooked as they come and loves a quick smash and grab.

He'll ruin your day and if he gets your wallet or purse, The Carburglar could steal your identity and ruin your life.

Here's how you can put this crook out of "work": 


Put Your Junk in the Trunk to keep your valuables safe

The best place for your valuables is at home! We know that isn’t always practical, which is why the Forest Preserve is reminding visitors to stow their personal possessions in their trunks when visiting the preserves. Don’t want to take your purse on a hike? Put in your trunk. Stopping for a run on your way home from work and have your laptop with you? Put it in your trunk. Inexplicably carrying wads of cash but don’t want it to weigh you down when you take Fido for a romp at the dog park? You guessed it. Put it in your trunk.

The best time to put your junk in the trunk is before you get to the preserves. Thefts from vehicles are crimes of opportunity, and you never know who might be lurking as you place bags, electronics and other expensive items in your trunk before hitting the trail.

The bottom line: If it’s important or valuable to you, the best place for it is in your vehicle’s trunk. Don’t have a trunk? Make sure your valuables are out of sight — under a seat, in the glove compartment, etc.


 

We want you to have a safe outing

Your valuables are safely stowed in your trunk — or better yet, at home — and now it’s time to soak up the beauty of the outdoors. Whether you’re spreading out a picnic blanket under the trees, taking a relaxed stroll or powering through an intense workout, a little preparation goes a long way. Keep these simple tips in mind to ensure your adventure stays safe and enjoyable:

  • Know your location and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Always carry your phone with you.
  • If you listen to music, wear only one earbud so you can hear traffic and other trail users.
  • Stay with a partner. If you visit the preserves alone, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
  • Stay to the right and pass on the left on trails.
  • Know when the sun will set and keep an eye on the time. Preserves close at sunset.
  • Stay alert and report suspicious activity.