Vehicle crime prevention and Christmas crime prevention reminder
This is a message from Neighbourhood Alert Information sent on behalf of Nottinghamshire Police
Message sent by
Lindsay Donnelly (Police, Administrator, Nottinghamshire)
Timely vehicle crime prevention advice and a quick reminder of some Christmas crime prevention advice for those going away or spending long periods of time away from your home.
Vehicle Advice
- Lock all the doors, windows, boot and sunroof every time you leave your car – however briefly.
- If you have steering locks and other security devices make use of them.
- Always remove the ignition key, even when the car is parked in your drive, garage or when you are filling up with fuel. Always set the alarm and immobiliser if you have one.
- Ensure car Sat Nav devices are removed from unattended vehicles when going out or visiting friends or family. Also make sure you remove the suction mounted fitting from the windscreen as this gives potential thieves a strong indication that the car has a Sat Nav device that may be in the car somewhere.
- Where possible, don’t return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping trip as thieves may well watch car parks for just such a chance. Arrange to collect bulky items from stores when you have finished all your shopping.
- Don’t leave anything on display. That old coat on the back seat may be worthless, but a thief won’t know that. It’s worth their while breaking in to see if you’ve left money or cards in the pocket. Remember, the cost and inconvenience of replacing a broken window is often far more than the value of goods stolen. If you have to keep presents/ January sales shopping in the car, make sure they are in the boot and the car is locked and that receipts are kept separate.
- Park in a well lit area or an attended car park when going out or shopping in the January sales. Why not check out “ParkMark” safer car parks and use those? http://www.parkmark.co.uk/
Home Security Advice
- If you are going away for Christmas or out visiting family and friends don’t leave car keys in your doors or lying around. But, you should be able to find them quickly in an emergency. Never leave your keys displayed on a hook, especially near an outside door or under a doormat.
- When you go out at night or if you are going away for Christmas, leave a light on with your curtains drawn. You could also leave the TV or radio on to look as if you are at home. You could use timer switches to turn your lights on at times when you’re normally at home or when it gets dark.
- Think before you throw. Dispose of packaging carefully. Empty boxes left outside can advertise that you have new and desirable goods at home.
For further Christmas crime prevention advice please visit the Christmas crime prevention page on our website http://www.nottinghamshire.police.uk/crimereduction/crime_free_christmas/