Think Twice Before You Stick That Family Decal On Your Car

Everyone knows that your family's safety is a priority when you're driving. There's always the possibility that something can come up and cause issues. Whether it's an accident, wildlife, or problems with your vehicle, you always have to be aware of your surroundings.

There's another problem that can cause you headaches and has nothing to do with your driving skills, but more with how much information you're sharing on your vehicle. You know, those innocent stickers you stick on to show your support of a certain cause, to let others know your political views, how much you love cats, all of the expensive hobbies you have, OR even more seious information about how many kids you have, where they go to school, what church you go to, and other clues about your familiy for criminals to use.

In Wyoming, we like to think that everyone respects our privacy and would never do anything to harm us, take advantage of us, destroy our property, or steal from us. The reality is, there are people everywhere looking for an easy payday.

I found a graphic from 'That sharp Shooting Girl' on Facebook that describes what your car is telling criminals about you, your family, and your lifestyle, and gives them an idea of the valuable items you may own.

• With hobbies like hunting, fishing, shooting, hiking, golfing, and camping being popular in Wyoming, when you advertise that you're into any of those activities, others know you probably have high-dollar items in your house or vehicle.
• When you have those stickers that represent your family on your window, you've just advertised how many people live in your house, or if you have animals.
• When you have a sticker with your kids' school name, you're telling others where to find them.
• When you have symbols, religious symbols, or you're a sticker of where you go to church, you're telling people that it's almost a guarantee that you'll be away from home when there is a church service.

With a quick social media or web search, someone can take that little bit of information and find a lot out about you and your family. It's always good to be vigilant and prioritize your family's safety, even in Wyoming.