Remove the temptation

1. Never leave anything on display in your car; even an old coat on the back seat is an invitation to a potential thief.

2. Take all your belongings with you when you leave your car, if you are unable to, lock them in your boot at the start of your journey.

3. The following items are of particular interest to the thief so should never be left in your car.

Mobile Phones
Laptops
Credit and debit cards
Receipts with card numbers on
Cheque books
Cash
Vehicle Registration Documents
Private mail showing your address.

Security Devices

Locks or other Security devices will deter potential thieves; they will go for an easy target.

1. Electronic Immobilisers are a way to put thieves off. These prevent the car from being started. They must be fitted by main dealers or installers accredited by the Vehicle Security Installation Board. All new cars sold in the UK since October 1988 are fitted with electronic immobilisers.

2. Mechanical immobilisers such as steering wheel locks are a good alternative to electronic immobilisers. They are not expensive and are easy to fit.

3. Fit locking wheel nuts. Wheels can be a target for thieves. Wheel nuts are not expensive and are easy to fit.

4. An alarm can help to keep your car secure but it must be installed properly.

Keep your car keys safe.

1. When you leave the car always remove the ignition key and lock all doors – it only takes a few seconds for a thief to jump into your car and drive away.

2. On icy mornings, never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running to warm it up or defrost the windows.

3. At home, always keep your car keys in a safe place, which is out of sight and away from windows and doors.

Etching

Arrange to have your car registration number etched onto all glass surfaces, including your headlamps or the last seven digits of your Vehicle identification Number (VIN).

Security Marking

Consider marking all your valuables, especially those that you take in the car frequently. Mark items with your postcode or some other unique identification number. If any of your valuables have serial numbers, make a note of them. This will help police return your possessions to you if they are stolen and recovered. It may also help to convict the offender.

Doors and Windows

Lock doors and close your windows and sunroof whenever you leave the car, however briefly. Many cars get broken into in the few seconds they are out of the owner’s sight.

Car Radios

Always remove your stereo if you can. It is one of the most sought after items in your car. All hi-fi equipment in your car should be permanently and visibly marked with the vehicles registration number or some other unique reference number such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Make a note of your stereo’s serial number and keep it in a safe place.

Stolen Goods

A lot of stolen goods are sold on to the public. If you are offered something that is too good to be true then it usually is. Stick to reputable shops and dealers. If you have any information regarding criminal activity particularly in relation to vehicle crime you can call your local police or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Parking

1. If you have a garage, use it. Always lock your car and your garage. If you don’t have a garage, park on your drive or on a well lit street.

2. Thieves always like to steal from cars parked in places where they run the least risk of being seen. When you park your car away from home, always try to avoid places that: are unattended
have easy access
are concealed from public view
have many escape routes

3. Try to look for a public car park, which is part of the police approved ‘Secured Car Parks’ scheme. This scheme aims to make car parks safer and more attractive places by setting high standards for design and management in order to prevent crime. Such car parks will display a sign that says ‘Secured Car Parks’.