Such advice will consist of:

Remove temptation with this vehicle crime prevention advice

• Before you get out of your vehicle, check nothing's left out on seats, the dash, console, door pockets or in footwells. Take all valuables with you. If you can't remove items, lock them out of sight in the boot or a vehicle safe. Be aware of your surroundings and whether anyone could be watching while you do this
• Close all windows and remove sat navs or phone holders. Wipe away suction marks as these may tempt thieves to break in to see if the device is still in the car. Put phone charging leads away for the same reason
• Always lock your vehicle. If it has remote locking, always physically check the doors have locked before you leave it. Criminals nearby can use a jamming device to block the remote signal, leaving the car unlocked so they can get in once you have left
• Where you park matters – most car crime occurs on the street. If you park in daylight and will be leaving your car until evening or overnight, consider how the area may look in the dark – aim to park somewhere which will be well-lit and busy
• If parking on a public road, park in a well-lit spot
• Use theft resistant number plates which are designed to break apart if they are forcibly removed
• Fit tamper-proof security screws, available from high street car accessory stores. These simple anti-theft devices can be easily fitted in place of existing screws but cannot be removed using standard tools
• If you notice a car with different number plates on the front and the back, or with the number plate missing, call police on the non-emergency number 101 or report it online here

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to speak to us.

Message Sent By

Vicky Wakeling (Police, Police Community Support Officer, Northampton)