Many break ins to cars are opportunist. It takes a thief only seconds to break a car window, grab what he wants and make a run for it.  Whilst we advocate additional security for your car, such as an alarm, the biggest deterrent to thieves is there is nothing of value to break in for.

You would be astonished at the number of handbags, wallets, cash, mobile phones, car stereos or laptops left in full view and there for the taking – don’t give them the opportunity!  

Wherever possible, remove these items from the car – if this is not practical, please lock anything of value out of sight.  We also recommend you try to make sure no one is watching you do this.

Please also note that you are at risk if you leave coats or jackets on show – the thief is not to know there is nothing in the pockets and may take the chance of breaking in to find out.  

Even if they take nothing you are left with the excess to pay on your broken window! 

Warnings

We have recently warned of an increase in the theft of laptops, satellite navigation and other valuables from vehicles.  Golf Clubs, Gyms, Leisure Centres, Hotels, Pubs, Restaurants, Motoway Services and Retail Parks seem particularly vulnerable.  

Statistical information on Derbyshire Car Breaks

Electrical / Audio Visual equipment - 32%
Bags, Money/Purses/Wallets - 20%
Computer / Telephone Equipment - 15%
Documents / Office Equipment - 14.5%
Sports Equipment, clothing, footwear - 9.5%
Tools / Equipment etc - 7%

(Totals do not add up to 100%; not a complete list and some incidents report more than one item taken during the break)

NB: These figures are for the first half of the year only (April - November 2004)

Further information on avoiding auto crime:

Motor Vehicle Security
http://www.secureyourmotor.gov.uk