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Top Tips to Avoid Vehicle Theft

Always keep your car locked. This includes closing the sunroof and windows, even if you only leave it for a few seconds. That's all it takes for a criminal to steal your car.
Don't leave anything in your car, particularly when it's parked overnight. If you're going out during the day, put your shopping or anything else in the boot before you leave your car if you can't take it with you.
Park with care. Park in busy or well-lit areas near CCTV cameras.
Always chain bikes, motorbikes and scooters to something fixed like security rails and ground anchors.
Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the car. Hide them at home, but not by the door. Thieves will use a rod or pole through the letterbox to steal car keys from hall tables.
Get a professionally fitted car alarm or a Thatcham-approved electronic immobiliser (you can find an approved installer through the Vehicle Systems Installation Board at www.vsib.co.uk), or you can use a steering lock on old cars. You can find information on products that have been tested by Thatcham or Sold Secure on www.thatcham.org Tel: 01635 868855 or www.soldsecure.com Tel 01327 264687

Take these simple steps to reduce vehicle crime:

Keep your car and contents secure

Fit an immobiliser, either electronic or mechanical (such as a steering wheel lock) - a sure way to stay out of trouble. Information on vehicle immobilisation products can be obtained by calling the Vehicle Security National Helpline on 0870 5502006.

Keep your keys in a safe place at all times and remove the ignition key every time you leave the vehicle. Always lock your car - it only takes a few seconds for someone to jump into your car and drive it away.

Arrange to have the Vehicle Registration Number etched onto all glass surfaces, including headlamps. Alternatives are to use the last 7 digits of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or a unique identifying number linked to a recognised database (LPCS 1224 and 1225).

Consider marking all your valuables, including the stereo and those you frequently take in your car. Use a unique identifying number (either linked to a recognised database or keep a note of the serial numbers in a safe place) or use your postcode.