9
Aug
2017
By Calvin at 08:59 GMT, 6 years ago
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/