Motor vehicle related theft is one of the more prevalent crimes affecting society at present, yet of all of the offences, it is probably one of the most easily prevented. Your car may be the most expensive item your family own (after your home). Of the cars stolen each year, one
in four are never recovered. In addition, thefts such as wheels, radios and personal valuables are even more numerous.
Theft of course is only one aspect. There is the inconvenience and personal loss to consider as well as the frustration caused if your vehicle is damaged and in need of repair.
Most car thieves are opportunists and the majority of thefts take place because owners make it far too easy for the thief. Simple and often inexpensive crime prevention measures can be taken to reduce the risk of your vehicle becoming a crime statistic. Some such measures are given in this factsheet and you should take action by checking this advice and comparing it with your own situation, taking the relevant remedial measures if necessary.
Doors
Ensure that they are locked every time you leave your car.
Luggage/Valuables
Don’t leave them on show inside - take them with you or lock them in the boot out of sight. Do not attempt to hide them under a seat. Never leave credit cards, etc. in the glove compartment.
Ignition Key
Remove, even when your car is in the garage.
Alarms
If an alarm is fitted, turn it on every time the car is left unattended.
Aerials
Always push down when you park.
Cassettes/CD Players/Radios
Some types can be removed in whole or in part. if this type is fitted to your vehicle, always remove when leaving your car unattended. You could consider installing an electronically security coded model which won’t work if it is tampered with or disconnected from the battery. Security mark by etching with the car registration number or some other special number.
Wheels
Lockable wheel nuts may stop thieves stealing your wheels.
Immobilisers
In addition to the steering lock already fitted, consider purchasing an immobilising device.
Fuel Cap
Fit a fuel cap which locks to prevent siphoning of petrol and forces thieves to abandon your car when it runs out of fuel.
Documents
Never leave the vehicle documents; test certificate, insurance certificate, registration document etc., in the vehicle.
Suspicious Persons
Watch out for strangers showing an interest in your vehicle and your neighbours vehicles. If you are suspicious, call the Police straight away.
Parking
Park your vehicle in a garage if you have one. If not, park in a busy, well-lit area if possible. remember –thieves don’t want to risk being seen, so consider this when parking your vehicle.
Glass Etching
Your registration number can be etched by most motor dealers onto glasswork such as windows, lamps and windshields on motorcycles.
Ultra Violet Marking
Mark with a special ultra violet pen your vehicle registration number on bodywork and accessories. This pen, which is available from most stationers, will mark your property with a durable mark invisible to the human eye. Suggested areas to mark are:
* interior fittings
* dashboard
* radio/CD player/cassette player
* engine and bulkhead doors
* interior floor (including boot)
* wheels (including the spare)
as well as any other expensive parts
Or alternatively mark important items with a DNA chemical coding product.
Security marked vehicles are much less attractive to the thief.
Further and more comprehensive advice on car security can be obtained from the following publications :
* The Family Guide:- Preventing crime together in Scotland (Scottish Executive)
* Keep your car secure:- Home Office
* How to buy a car and keep it:- Home Office
* Security marking for cars and motorbikes:- Home Office.
