Protecting your vehicle from theft

As we enter into the darker nights, we are issuing further crime prevention advice around protecting your vehicle against opportunistic criminals.

To make your car less likely to be targeted by thieves, there are some simple measures you can take:

• Make sure all doors and windows are locked and closed when you aren’t in the vehicle and any alarms should be activated.
• Don’t leave valuables on display, or anything that could be mistaken for them.
• Even a carrier bag of rubbish or an empty laptop bag could attract the wrong attention, with items like satnavs being targeted if they’re left inside.
• Satnav holders should also be removed from view.
• Think about where you’re parking, if possible, a well-lit and secure car park or drive way is preferred.
• If you are parking in a public car park, those displaying the Park Mark Safer Parking Tick are some of the safety to park in. To find an approved car park in your area, visit www.parkmark.co.uk.

For more advice on how best to protect your vehicle, read our guidance here.

If you believe you have been a victim of theft or related incidents, please report this through our non-emergency number 101.