Theft of catalytic converters is on the rise in Omaha, and UNMC has not been immune.
Catalytic converters are emission control devices found on the exhaust system of most vehicles.
Precious metals
Thieves scrap the catalytic converters, as some of the metals contained within the converters have increased in value. Repairs due to damage caused by theft are expensive.
Suspects are known to target high-clearance vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, vans and fleet vehicles.
Some of the thefts have occurred in broad daylight, in both heavily and lightly traveled areas.
Prevention steps
Here are some steps to prevent catalytic converters theft:
- Always park in well-lighted areas.
- At shopping centers and other similar parking lots, park close to the entrance of the building.
- When parking on campus, contact campus security immediately at 402-559-5111 when observing suspicious activity.
- Have your license plate number or VIN engraved on the converter to make it traceable. This can act as a theft deterrent and help with police investigations.
- Visit a local muffler shop and have the converter secured to the vehicle’s frame with a couple of pieces of hardened steel welded to the frame.
- Check out the different types of catalytic converter theft deterrent systems available at your local auto parts store or on the internet.