Owning
While many of us will enjoy a life of motoring free from crime, there are a number of simple steps you can take to help protect your pride and joy.
Top 10 Tips
| 1 | Make sure that the doors are locked, and that the windows and sun-roof are shut (no matter how hot the weather). |
| 2 | Park your car where it can be seen, not out of sight. At night, avoid parking in areas with little or no lighting. |
| 3 | Don't leave any belongings on display. You might know that the bag on the back seat is empty, but will the thief? One in five stolen cheques and credit cards are taken from cars. |
| 4 | If your music system is removable, take it, along with CDs & tapes (and make a note of the serial number). |
| 5 | Remove the ignition key and engage the steering lock, even when the car is parked in your own driveway or garage. If possible, lock your garage door. Steering locks are a visual and inexpensive way of immobilising your vehicle. |
| 6 | Look for a car park that is well supervised, and preferably one that displays a 'Secured Car Park' (SCP) gold or silver emblem. For more info, visit www.saferparking.com |
| 7 | Car-jacking - it's important to keep your doors locked and windows shut when in built-up areas – especially at traffic lights. If someone tries to pull you over for no apparent reason, drive to a police station, or an area where people are present. |
| 8 | If another car appears to be following you, do not drive home. Get the registration number and drive to a police station or area where people are present. |
| 9 | Have immobilisers and car alarms professionally fitted. Ideally, car alarms should conform to the BS 6803 standard. |
| 10 | Have your car registration or the last seven digits of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etched onto your windows, windscreen, headlamps and sunroof. |