The top ten automobiles stolen in the United States in 2009 were:

• Honda Accord
• Honda Civic
• Toyota Camry
• Ford F-150 Pickup
• Dodge Ram Pickup
• Dodge Caravan
• Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size)
• Acura Integra
• Ford Explorer
• Toyota Corolla

In 2009, 794,616 motor vehicles were reported stolen, which is the sixth consecutive annual decrease. Overall in the United States, motor vehicle theft was down by 17 percent from 2008 to 2009 according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) Uniform Crime Reports.

The FBI reports that in 2009 the Northeast saw a reduction in auto theft of 17.5 percent.

According to the FBI, every 40 seconds a vehicle is stolen in the United States.

If your auto is not on the top ten stolen vehicle list, be thankful.  However, choosing to ignore simple safety measures could open an invitation to theft.  Here are a few guidelines to keep your vehicle safe:

• Remove the keys from the ignition
• Close the car windows
• Lock the car doors
• Park in a well lit area
• Remove the garage door opener from the car--there is no better way to welcome thieves into your home.
• Purchase and use anti-theft devices to protect your automobile. Save money by checking with your insurance company to see if they offer a discount on your automobile insurance policy for a vehicle that is equipped with an anti-theft device.

For more information on keeping your vehicle safe visit http://www.nicb.org.