MANSFIELD - The Mansfield Police Department is offering local drivers a quick and easy way to protect their vehicles from car theft.

In conjunction with the Mansfield TRIAD and the Governor's Auto Theft Strike Force, the police will be conducting a VIN Window Etching Day on April 26. The program is a joint effort to battle auto theft.

Auto glass etching uses a mild acid that marks a vehicle identification number (VIN) on all windows of a vehicle. Sunroofs and T-Tops are also marked. This process does not deface the vehicle in any way.

The event will be held on Saturday, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Plymouth Street Fire Station in Mansfield. The event is open to everyone, and drivers don't have to be a Mansfield residents to participate.

VIN window etching makes vehicles less attractive to car thieves because the thief would have to replace all the cars' windows in order to erase all traces of a vehicle's VIN. There is a $10 fee - cash only - for the Etching. Drivers don't have to be the owner of the car but they will need valid vehicle registrations. Drivers will also need a valid driver's license. The process takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete. No appointment is necessary.

Participants will also receive a certificate that may entitle them to 15 percent off on comprehensive auto insurance - check with the insurance company.

"The benefits of the program far outweigh the $10 fee," Mansfield Sgt. Larry Crosman said.

The Mansfield TRIAD is a group that consists of Mansfield seniors citizens who work closely with representatives of the Mansfield Police and Fire Departments as well as the Sheriff's Department. TRIAD's goal is help educate seniors about safety issues that they deal with on a daily basis.

At the Window Etching, members of the Mansfield TRIAD will be on hand to provide safety information and information on programs that they are running such as the "File of Life." There will also be a bake sale taking place during the event. Seniors from all area towns are encouraged to attend.