Wandsworth police remind residents "Your vehicle is like a shop window"
Motorists are urged not to make it easy for thieves by keeping property on display when leaving their cars. Vehicle owners are often soft targets for criminals who see property such as Satellite Navigation devices, mobile phones, handbags and wallets as easy pickings. Remove cradles and wipe windows clean of marks.
Always
Make sure all windows and your sunroof are properly closed, lock all doors and turn on any security devices you have when leaving your vehicle unattended. Take care when choosing a parking space, particularly at night or if you are leaving the vehicle for a long time.
Wherever possible, park in a busy, well-lit area.
Never
Leave cash, credit cards, mobile phones, vehicle documents or other valuables in the vehicle.
Keep your keys on your person in a safe place at all times. Never leave them in the vehicle - even for short periods. Treat them as you would your cash or credit cards. Make sure they are kept in a secure place when at home and work. Burglars often break into buildings to steal vehicle keys
Forensics
If your vehicle is broken into always consider forensic opportunities, is there blood or foreign items in the car – please tell the police when reporting it ….
Remember: If you can see any property left on view then so can a thief. Take your property with you or put it out of sight
Remember
Most motor vehicle crime can be prevented.
January 23, 2013