Stopping Car Crime: Tips and Guides

Vehicle Crime: An Introduction

Furthermore, precautions against relay theft, avoiding the display of valuables, and responsible parking practices can act as deterrents to potential criminals. Additional measures, such as securing number plates with one-way screws, using steering wheel or gear lever locks, paying attention to the audible and visual cues of a properly locked vehicle, and installing a vehicle tracker can significantly enhance the security of your vehicle, providing you with greater peace of mind.

Summary of Car Crime Tips

• Always lock your vehicle, even when leaving it for a brief moment.
• Use a garage for parking if available, and ensure it's locked.
• Store vehicle keys and ignition fobs in secure, non-visible places.
• Protect against keyless car theft by storing keys in a security pouch and keeping software updated.
• Don't leave valuable items visible inside your vehicle.
• Park responsibly, preferably in Park Mark-approved car parks when away from home.
• Secure your number plates with one-way security screws.
• Utilise steering wheel or gear lever locks for added security.
• Double-check the vehicle's locked status through auditory and visual cues.
• Install a vehicle tracker to monitor your vehicle's activity and location.

Car Crime Top Tips

To prevent car and vehicle theft, the PSNI recommends the following:

Securing your vehicle: Make it a routine to secure your vehicle at all times, irrespective of the duration you plan to leave it unattended. A momentary lapse in attention can provide criminals with an opportunity to steal your vehicle or its contents. The security of your vehicle is further enhanced when you activate the automatic locking system, if available, which folds in the wing mirrors upon locking.

Garage storage: If you have access to a garage, it's advised to utilise it for parking and safeguard it with a lock. In the case of garages with gates, ensure the gates are also locked. You might want to consider installing an alarm system for additional protection.

Safekeeping of keys: Be sure to keep your vehicle's keys and ignition fobs in secure places that are not easily visible or accessible. In many cases, car theft occurs through the theft of keys or ignition fobs, whether left in the vehicle or taken during a home burglary.

Preventing relay theft: Vehicles with a smart or passive key are prone to keyless car theft, also known as 'relay theft'. To combat this, store your keys (including any spares) in a secure pouch, also known as a 'Faraday bag' or signal blocker, when not being used. Regular software updates from manufacturers can also strengthen your vehicle's in-car security systems against such attacks.

Avoid displaying valuables: Don't leave items that may attract thieves, such as mobile phones, electronic gadgets, coins, sunglasses, tools, clothes, and bags, on display in your vehicle. Secure these belongings in the boot or remove them entirely to avoid attracting potential thieves.

Responsible parking: Always ensure your vehicle is locked and the windows are closed when left unattended. For added safety when parking outside home premises, consider using a car park that has been approved by Park Mark.

Number plate security: To prevent your vehicle's number plates from being stolen and used to disguise stolen vehicles, secure your plates with clutch head security screws or one-way security screws, which complicate the process of removal.

Steering wheel and gear lever locks: Increase the security of your parked vehicle by using steering wheel or gear lever locks, or by installing a security box over the pedals.

Auditory and visual cues of locking: Reconfirm your vehicle's locking by paying attention to the sound of the doors locking, lights flashing, and mirrors closing. If these signs are missing, double-check to ensure your vehicle is properly secured.

Vehicle tracking: Installing a tracker in your vehicle can alert you if your vehicle becomes active or enters a new location. Certain advanced vehicle tracking and alarm systems even allow you to remotely disable fuel systems, essentially immobilising the vehicle and preventing the thief from escaping in the event of a theft.

Do's and Don'ts To Avoid Car Crime

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the importance of locking my vehicle even for brief moments?

Even brief moments of leaving your vehicle unlocked can provide an opportunity for theft. Always ensure your vehicle is locked, even if you're stepping away for just a minute. This can significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle being targeted by thieves.

What precautions should I take with my car keys?

You should always keep your car keys secure and hidden. Don't leave keys in your vehicle or any place where they can be easily spotted or reached. This applies to both physical keys and ignition fobs. Also, if your vehicle uses a smart key, consider storing it in a security pouch when not in use to prevent signal interception by thieves.

How can I prevent items in my car from being stolen?

Avoid leaving any valuables or personal items visible in your car. Thieves are often opportunistic and may break into a car to steal visible items. Always remove or securely store any belongings, ideally in the boot or glove compartment of your vehicle.

How can I secure my car when parking it?

Always ensure your car is locked and the windows are closed when it's parked and unattended. If possible, park in well-lit areas, or use car parks that have been approved by Park Mark for their high security standards.

What are the benefits of using a steering wheel lock or pedal security box?

Using a steering wheel lock or a pedal security box can significantly deter potential thieves as these devices visibly complicate the process of stealing a car, making your vehicle a less attractive target.

How can I prevent my car's number plates from being stolen?

To secure your number plates, consider using one-way security screws. These screws make it difficult for thieves to remove your plates, helping to prevent them from using your number plates to mask the identity of stolen vehicles.

How can a vehicle tracker enhance the security of my car?

A vehicle tracker can alert you when your vehicle is active or moving in an unfamiliar area. In the event of a theft, some advanced trackers can even allow you to remotely disable the vehicle's fuel system, immobilising the vehicle and thwarting the thief's escape.

References

1. "Preventing Car and Vehicle Theft", Police Service of Northern Ireland, Accessed 21 June 2023, https://www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/keeping-safe/roads-and-driving/preventing-car-and-vehicle-theft
2. "Preventing car and vehicle theft", Police.UK, Accessed 21 June 2023, www.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/preventing-car-vehicle-theft/