| There is a lot we can all do to try to avoid our cars and bikes, caravans and vans being stolen. Although vehicle theft has actually declined since 1997 it is still a common enough event that will affect thousands of us each year. It accounts for one fifth of all recorded crimes. In fact, there are still more than two million vehicle related thefts each year, nearly half of all the thefts occur outside peoples homes at night with over 80% of us being emotionally affected by the theft.
There are ways we can all reduce the chances of vehicle crime these include;
Avoid leaving anything on display in the vehicle which might attract thieves. Leaving keys with private mail in a glove box can easily result in a house theft too.
Make sure you lock your door and keep your windows closed if you are in slow moving traffic.
Get a stereo you can remove when you leave your vehicle and mark it with your registration number or postcode. Make a note of the serial number.
Have an approved dealer or installer to fit an alarm. Make sure a new car has an alarm fitted as standard.
Have your car's registration number etched onto all glass surfaces - including the headlights. Or have the last 7 digits of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) - unique to your car - linked with a recognised, secure database, etched in this way. Most manufacturers are now bonding VIN plates to the dashboard in plain view - check it out if you're buying a new car.
An electronic immobiliser means your car won't start unless you want it to. Get an approved dealer or installer to fit it - you can find one through the Vehicle Systems Installation Board.
Never leave your car running and then unattended. Always take your keys with you when you are paying for fuel. Do not leave the car engine running when its cold and your windscreen needs scraping.
You should only buy security devices or services that are approved by either Thatcham (the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre 0870 550 2006, ) or by Sold Secure (01327 264 687). Fitted devices should be installed by a professional - either your car dealer or by an installer approved by the Vehicle Systems Installation Board. You could contact The Retail Motor Industry Federation to find your nearest approved garage or dealership. |
