Vehicle Crime Reduction

Drive down vehicle crime!

Vehicle crime has actually fallen by over 30% during the last five years. Even so, there are still more than two million vehicle-related thefts each year, and a lot of them could be prevented. Here’s how.

Safety tips

Rule number 1: 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 or belongings.
Rule number 2: Don’t leave anything in your car, particularly when it’s parked overnight. 63% of thefts of and from vehicles happen when they are parked outside the home.
Rule number 3: Park with care. Park in busy or well-lit areas near CCTV cameras, or in police-approved car parks (look out for ‘ParkMarkTM’ on signs) if possible. You can find out which car parks are approved at www.saferparking.com
Always chain bikes, motorbikes and scooters to something fixed like security rails and ground anchors

Secure your car

You’re more than twice as likely to have your vehicle broken into than stolen. On average, that means paying out £100 – just for the repairs.

Never leave the keys in the ignition, not even in a garage when you are paying for petrol.
Don’t leave anything on display!
Fit a stereo with a removable front panel (also known as a fascia).
Never leave car documents or spare keys inside the car.
Get a professionally fitted car alarm or a Thatcham-approved electronic immobiliser.
Have your car’s registration number etched onto all glass surfaces, including the windscreen.
When you’re driving, keep doors locked and windows up, especially in slow traffic.
If you’re leaving your car, put your shopping or anything else in the boot if you can’t take it with you.

Secure your bicycle

Over 100,000 bikes are stolen every year.

Buy a good-quality lock because chains can be easily cut. D-locks or combination locks are best.
Always lock both wheels and keep the lock off the ground
Take away any extras, like lights and helmets.
Have your bike frame security-marked with your name and postcode.

Secure your motorbike and scooter

Motorbikes are popular targets for thieves because they can be sold easily or broken up for parts, which are harder to trace.

Put a steering lock on and use a strong steel cable or D-lock to attach your bike to security rails or ground anchors.
Get a professionally fitted combined alarm and immobiliser.
If you’ve got a garage, use it. Or, cover your motorbike or scooter when you’re not using it.