With summer here, many people will be making more journeys than usual, often parking up for entire days in remote car parks in the countryside or at the seaside.
With car windows down to keep seats cool, and many more soft top and convertible cars on the road, the warmer weather provides a haven for opportunist thieves who will be on the lookout for rich pickings from vehicles left unattended while holidaymakers spend their days in the shops or on the beach.
According to the British Crime Survey, there were almost two million vehicle-related crimes in 2005/6.
Green Flag recommends the following tips to help prevent car crime this summer;
- Never leave a car door unlocked or a window or sunroof open, no matter how hot the weather is. Even a minute or two is too long - it only takes a second to reach inside.
- Don't leave belongings on view in your car. A thief will break a window to grab a handbag, coat or shopping bag. If you have to leave personal possessions in your car, lock them in the boot.
- Don't leave credit cards or chequebooks in the glove compartment or under the seat.
- If you have a stereo with a detachable front, always remove from view.
- Always park in well-lit, open locations if possible, or in secure car parks.
- Also, Green Flag advises that motorists go further with anti-theft devices, alarms conforming to British Standard 6803, lockable petrol caps, and immobilising devices.
- Consider having a stolen vehicle recovery device fitted from TRACKER. This will deter thieves and allow the police to track down and recover your car if it is stolen.
