HELP END AUTO THEFT

Register in the Texas H.E.A.T. Program

Texas is the first state to implement a statewide vehicle registration program aimed at reducing auto theft during nighttime hours. Vehicle owners not normally using their vehicles between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. sign an agreement allowing peace officers to stop a vehicle and verify ownership if they observe it being driven during those hours. Owners may extend additional authority at the time of registration to have the vehicle stopped for verification 24-hours a day at the Texas-Mexico border.

Register your vehicle at the following Regional Command Centers:

1. Police Headquarters 911 North Raynor El Paso, Texas 79903 (915) 564-7117
2. Mission Valley 9011 Escobar Dr. El Paso, Texas 79907 (915) 872-3600
3. Northeast 9600 Dyer St. El Paso, Texas 79924 (915) 759-2000
4. Pebble Hills 10780 Pebble Hills El Paso, Texas 79935 (915) 599-5500
5. Westside 4801 Osborne Dr. El Paso, Texas 79922 (915) 585-6000

How to Reduce the Carjacking Risk

When entering your vehicle and while driving:

• Have your key ready to enter the vehicle, and check around and inside before getting in.
• Know where you’re going and how to get there. Call ahead for directions, if necessary.
• Drive with all doors locked and windows up.
• Make a mental note of hospitals, police and fire stations as you pass by.
• When pulling up behind another vehicle at a stoplight or sign, leave enough space in front of you for an emergency escape, if needed.
• When dropping off a guest at their vehicle, make sure they are in the car and safely on their way before departing.
• Avoid driving through high-crime or unfamiliar areas.
• Avoid driving during late night and early morning hours when less traffic is on the road.
• Avoid curbside lanes. Drive in the center lanes away from potential foot traffic.
• Do not hurry to stoplights or signs. Keep the vehicle in motion whenever possible.

When approaching your destination, parking your vehicle, and preparing to exit:

• Check rearview mirrors to make sure you’re not being followed.
• Choose a secured and well-lit parking lot or garage near heavily traveled walkways, streets and businesses for greater visibility.
• Park at the ground level, if possible, to avoid using elevators or stairs.
  When returning home after dark, have someone turn on the outside light and meet you at the door, if possible
• When exiting your vehicle, be cautious of surrounding obstructions and natural barriers that may be concealing a carjacker.
• Never sit in your parked or stopped car eating, sleeping, reading, or applying makeup.
• Do not park next to suspicious vans; trucks, dumpsters or places carjackers may be hiding.

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