Vehicle Security
The good news is that of all crimes, car crime is probably the most preventable of all. The fact is that good security can at worst slow a thief down, forcing him to use tools that are hard to conceal, and at best deter him completely. In addition some of the security measures mentioned here can cost nothing more than a little thought and common sense.'
Doors and Windows
Lock the doors, windows, boot and sunroof every time you leave your car - however briefly. Most thieves are opportunist and are always on the watch for an open car. Don't make it yours!
Ignition Key and Immobiliser
Take the ignition key out even when the car is parked in your drive or garage, and always set the immobiliser. Immobilisers are designed to stop thieves driving cars away. There are various different types, ranging from electronic devices, which break the ignition circuit so the car won't start through to mechanical devices such as gear locks and steering locks. Remember - always use them!
Valuables and Other Possessions
Don't leave them on display. That old coat on the back seat may be worthless but a thief won't know that. He may break in to see if you've left money or cards in the pocket. Always remember that the cost of replacing a car window is often much more than the value of the goods stolen. If you can, take your belongings with you. If you can't, lock everything out of sight in the boot. In particular never leave any of the following in your car.
Cheque, credit and debit cards.
Thieves like nothing better than going on a spending spree with your plastic. They will also use them to refuel your car or to sell on to another thief.
Driving documents and personal correspondence.
They could help a thief to sell your car or provide a cover story if stopped by the police.
Mobile Phones.
40% of car break-ins involve the theft of a mobile phone. Mark your phone and battery with your postcode and keep a note of its serial number in a safe place. This will help us to return your phone should it be stolen and subsequently recovered by us. Contact us and we will send you a free marker pen.
CD & Radio/Cassette players
Always remove these if you can. Whether removable or not, all equipment should be marked both visibly and permanently with the vehicle registration number. Take the time to make a note of the serial number and keep it in a safe place.
Etching
Arrange to have the vehicle registration number etched on to all glass surfaces - including the side windows and headlamps. You may also arrange to have the vehicle identification number etched in this way, but always remember to check with your vehicle manufacturer before doing so.
Aerial
When parking please remember to put the aerial down to prevent it being vandalised.
Driving
Even when driving remember to keep all valuables out of sight and consider keeping all the doors locked and the windows closed. Thieves have been known to steal handbags and other valuables by opening car doors while cars have been stationary at traffic lights or held up in slow moving traffic such as those encountered at large sporting events. Never leave your car unattended with the engine running. Not only is this an invitation to a thief to drive off with it but it is an offence to do so under the Road Traffic Act.
Parking
If you have a garage please use it and remember to lock it! More than half of all car thefts occur in the vicinity of the home. When away from your home or if you do not have a garage, always try to park in a well lit open location.
Thieves target car parks. A quarter of all recorded crime happens in car parks. When parking in a public car park look for one that is well supervised with restricted entry and exit points, good lighting and security cameras. Avoid dark corners.
The police scheme Secured Car Parks aims to make car parks safer, more attractive places by setting high crime prevention standards of internal design, layout and management. Those that meet the required standards are entitled to display the official gold or silver 'Secured Car Parks' plaque. Try and use these car parks at all times.
