By Brian Trompeter
The Vienna Police Department is taking a proactive approach to combat the uptick in thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles across the United States, department officials said March 10.
Owners of those cars may be wondering how to make their vehicles less appealing to thieves. Locking a vehicle’s doors is a very effective deterrent, but adding a steering-wheel lock may provide an additional layer of protection, police said.
Vienna police have obtained several steering-wheel locks directly from the manufacturer as part of Hyundai’s nationwide campaign. Starting Monday, March 13, the locks will be available free of charge to Hyundai owners who are town of Vienna residents.
Locks can be picked up Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the lobby at Vienna Police Headquarters, 215 Center St., S. Recipients of the free steering-wheel locks must own 2011-21 Hyundai vehicles with key (not push-button) ignition systems.
Vienna police in upcoming weeks also plan to offer the locks to Kia owners, and then subsequently to owners of other vehicle brands while supplies last, said Master Police Officer Juan Vazquez, a department spokesman.
For more information, contact Vazquez at juan.vazquez@viennava.gov or (703) 255-7845.
