Steer Clear of Car Crime

• Since the mid nineties improved security measures undertaken by car manufacturers make the theft of newer style motor vehicles more difficult.  A recent crime trend for high value car tefts has been by criminals stealing car keys from the home during the night, when the car is parked outside & then driving the vehicle away.  Consideration must be given to home security & owners of motor vehicles are advised to check their home security.  to help you protect your home & family visit our site: How to Protect Your Home

Number Plates

• Throughout the country there has been a major increase in the number of theft of number plates. There are a number of reasons for this. To help prevent your number plate from being stolen Redbridge Police has devised an initiative to help reduce this crime on the Borough.To find out more visit our site Don't let thieves 'Nick Your Reg'

What you can do to make your car secure

Opportunists undertake the majority of motor vehicle crime.  These people are constantly on the look out to either steal a motor vehicle or property from the vehicle.

The following is general advice in how to take basic preventative measures to help prevent you from becoming a victim: -..

• Do not leave anything on display in your car. Even an old coat on the back seat is a temptation for someone to 'smash & grab' - they steal first and think about value later.

• Never leave any of the following on display in your car, as they are all particularly attractive to car thieves.

• Mobile Phones.

• Lap Top Computers.

• Satellite Navigation Systems. Remember to remove the suction cap from the vehicle as well & think “Do I need to take this today”

• Cash, however a small amount!.

• Personal Documents.

Security Devices

• You can get more information about alarms, immobilisers and other security devices by visiting the following Web sites www.thatcham.org or www.soldsecure.com

• Electronic immobilisers (which prevent the car from starting) & Alarm Systems are a good way to prevent your car from being stolen, but they must be fitted by main dealers or installers accredited by the Vehicle Security Installation Board.

• The addition of a Tracking system installed in the motor vehicle enhances the chances of the vehicle being recovered & can reduce insurance premiums.

• Locks or other security devices are good ways to secure your car and put off would-be-thieves.

• Fit Locking wheel nuts, as wheels are a target for car thieves. Wheel nuts are not expensive and are easy to fit.

Keep Your Car Keys Safe

• When you leave your car, always remove the ignition key and lock all doors - it only takes a few seconds for a thief to jump into your car and drive away. Follow this routine all the time, even when filling up with petrol or just popping into the shop.

• At home, always keep your car keys in a safe place, which is out of sight and away from windows and doors.

Doors and Windows

• Lock all doors, windows and close the sunroof every time you leave your car unattended - however, briefly. Many cars get broken into in the few seconds that a car is out of the driver's sight.

Sterio

• Always remove the car stereo or facia if possible - it's one of the most sought- after items in your car.

Car Parks

• With the number of motor vehicles on the road every motorist will have to park within a car park at some time. The following are points to consider when using a car park. This advice is even more beneficial to new motorists having just passed their driving test.

• Look for a public car park, which is part of the police - approved 'Park Mark' formerly 'Secure Car Parks' scheme such as Ilford Exchange and Clements Road multi storey car Parks. This scheme makes car parks safer and more attractive places by setting high standards for design and management in order to prevent crime. Such parks will display a sign that says 'Park Mark' or 'Secured Car Parks'.

If unable to use such a car park: -

• Avoid poorly lit car parks.

• Whenever possible, choose a manned car park.

• Reverse into the parking space. Put away all valuables and obvious possessions in the boot.

• Make sure the interior light is working. Shut all windows. Lock all doors. Note exactly where you have parked your car especially what floor you are on.

• When returning to your car, have keys ready to get in quickly. Before entering scan the back seat to check no one has climbed in.

• Lock doors immediately when you are in the car and before you drive off.

Documents

• Never leave vehicle documents in your car. Your registration document, MOT and insurance certificate will help the thief sell your vehicle.

Crimestoppers

• If you have any information about criminal activity, particularly concerning cars stolen for spare parts or items stolen from cars and then sold to the public, you can contact Crimestoppers : 0800 555 111.You do not have to give out your name.

If you wish to discuss, or would like a visit from a crime prevention officer then please call us direct on (020) 8554 9264 or by  Email us on : RedbridgeCPO@met.police.uk