The Crime Prevention Website

Here’s some useful information sent to me by our crime reduction friend in Essex Police; Stephen Armson-Smith

He’s circulated the information, because there’s a current problem in the area he works - the Braintree and Uttlesford districts. However, vehicle crime is an ever and present problem all over the UK and so I thought it would be good to run the story for all of us.

Here’s Stephen’s advice:

Cars and vans are frequently broken into and a lot of these are happening because the vehicles are being left insecure.  Therefore most of these crimes are preventable by just locking the doors.

Number plates are also a common target for thieves, so consider thief resistant number plates or anti-theft fixings, but speak to your car dealer first as some may affect your warranty.

Below are a few tips that may prevent you from becoming a victim:

  • You might like to register your property on www.immobilise.com  This is a completely free service. Please visit the website for more information
  • DON’T tempt thieves by leaving any items on display
  • DO CLEAN THE SAT NAV RING off the windscreen
  • DO TURN BLUETOOTH OFF anything left in the car – it can be detected when on
  • DO lock your vehicle at all times, even when parked on your driveway or when carrying out any work
  • DO consider fitting additional locks on van doors
  • DO PARK REAR DOORS ON VANS up against garage doors or a wall to prevent access
  • DO NOT just press the button on your fob to lock it – Look at your car to see the lights flash etc. to confirm locking; someone may be nearby with a “remote blocker” and stop your car from locking
  • If you don’t have an alarm consider fitting one
  • DO try to park in a secure, well lit area were possible and consider CCTV on your driveway
  • If using a public car park – Try to use a “Parkmark” approved car park  www.parkmark.co.uk

The following items are of particular interest to a thief so should never be left in your vehicle:

  • Satellite navigation
  • MP3 systems
  • Mobile phones
  • Laptops
  • Wallets/ purses/ credit and debit cards
  • Cash/ cheque book
  • Electrical items
  • Jewellery
  • Power tools and work equipment
  • Vehicle registration documents 

Empty your car before someone else does!

If you see a crime being committed dial 999. If you have information about who is committing crime dial 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Theft from Vehicles – additional advice https://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/vehicle-and-bike-security/505/vehicle-security/

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