Car crime

In the London Borough of Sutton in the year ending March 1997 there were 1,933 reported vehicle crimes. This was a reduction in reported crime over the previous year when 2,300 crimes were committed. The Police clear up rate of these crimes was 17%.

To reduce the risk of vehicles being stolen

DO

Change your locking petrol cap if the key also fits the ignition. A thief could take the cap and have a duplicate key cut. He may then return to steal the car.

Lock all doors and windows when leaving your vehicle.

Avoid leaving your vehicle in a dimly lit place.

Take your parking ticket with you when you are parking in a multi storey car park. This will make it more difficult for the thief to steal the vehicle and leave the car park.

Lock your car even if you are leaving it for a short time.

Try and find a car park with surveillance cameras and preferably one that has a secured by design award.

In traffic, lock internal doors and do not leave valuables in view of passers by.

Turn wheels sharply towards the curb when parking. This makes it more difficult for thieves to tow vehicles.

Mark valuable items such as CD players, car radio's. Arrange to engrave the car registration number on the windows and preferably in a less conspicuous place on the door or under the bonnet.

Ensure a security alarm system is installed within the vehicle. It is good practice to have a second ignition switch that prevents electrical current from reaching the car.

Attach a visual warning sticker that the car is alarmed. A further visual deterrent is a " crook lock" type device fitted to the steering wheel, and a dummy alarm with a flashing light could deter the opportunist thief.

DO NOT

Leave keys in the ignition or the engine running, even for a short time

Leave keys in a hiding place inside the car

Attach a tag with your address to a key ring

Leave vehicle registration documents, insurance and MOT certificates inside your vehicle.

Leave valuables in full view of people passing by.