There were more than 700,000 cars stolen in the US in 2015. That's one every 45 seconds and 3.1% more than in 2014. Although car theft is punishable by incarceration, probation, or fines, thieves don't seem to be stopping. So what can you do to prevent your car from being stolen?

Here are 5 tips to prevent car theft

1. Park Smart. Be smart about where you park your car— Dark and secluded locations, like carports, underground parking, and parking garages are more appealing to car thieves since there is less chance that they will be seen or caught. In a garage, they have their pick of vehicle. It is best to park your car in a well-lilt area, on the street or in your driveway.
2. Take Keys. Don't leave your keys in the car, ever—Not even at the gas station or in your driveway to heat up your car in the morning. This is asking to have it stolen. Along the same note, do not leave a spare set of keys in your car since thieves know where to find them.
3. Close Windows. Never leave your windows open, even an inch. Even with this small allowance, thieves will be able to get the window open enough to unlock the door.

Tip 4 and 5 go above and beyond to prevent car theft. Continue reading below

4. Anti-theft Devices. Purchase anti-theft devices—Good alarms with motion sensors will deter some people from taking your car. Also, steering wheel locks and ignition cut-off systems can prevent the car from being started. This delay might make a thief move on to another car that is easier to start. Here are some examples ( and links at the end of this article):
   • The Club
   • Ignition Kill Switches
   • Viper Security System
5. Tracking Devices. Purchase an electronic tracking device for your car like the LoJack which can help police locate your car once it is stolen. Some auto insurance companies will give their policy holders discounts on tracking devices.

These tips may be critical if your car is on the following list. Continue reading below

The 10 Most Frequently Stolen Vehicles of 2015, starting with the worst.

1. Honda Accord
2. Honda Civic
3. Ford Pickup*
4. Chevrolet Pickup*
5. Toyota Camry
6. Dodge Pickup*
7. Toyota Corolla
8. Nissan Altima
9. Dodge Caravan
10. Chevrolet Impala

* Full Size. Source: National Insurance Crime Bureau. To see a local ranking, go to NCBI and double-click on your state.

Links to anti-theft devices

LoJack, The Club, Ignition Kill Switches, and Viper Security System.