Car theft is, and always will be, a problem but all is not lost as there are plenty of precautions you can take to minimise the probability of your vehicle being stolen or damaged. Keeping your car safe and secure not only does the obvious by preventing loss and damage but helps to keep your insurance premiums down by also reducing the likelihood of having to make a claim on your policy. There are over a million car thefts every year in the United Kingdom, so it does make sense to ensure your car is as safe as it can be.
The first step to keeping your car safe is completely free and involves simply using your common sense in every day scenarios. Where possible, park in a busy and well lit area, preferably with CCTV, where thieves are less likely to strike. Always make sure you lock your car and close windows and sunroofs every time you park up and leave. And, if possible park your car with the back reversed against a wall as this makes it more difficult for thieves to break into your boot and steal any items you may have in there.
Remember it’s not only theft of your car you need to consider as theft of items from your car is also possible. In light of this, never leave valuables in the car or in view of passers by. Opportunistic thieves may be attracted by a mobile phone or purse left in sight so don’t give them the opportunity to steal anything, so keep these items safe and sound. If you have no choice but to keep valuables in your car then the boot is the safest place for them.
Satellite navigation systems and car stereos are among some the most common items to be stolen so you should always remove each if possible when out and about and take these items with you as opposed to hiding them under seats or in the glove compartment.
Installing an alarm system not only deters would be thieves but attracts attention if someone does try to break into your car. Make good use of the stickers that come with alarm systems and stick them on windows where they can be easily viewed and therefore prevent theft. Never assume that because your car has a remote control it means it also has an alarm fitted, as this is not always the case.
Using a steering wheel and brake pedal lock has the same preventative effect and these items can be picked up easily from high street stores. Also, time is your friend when it comes to car theft, as the longer it takes to actually break into and then steal your car, the less likely thieves are to even try in the first place.
Tags: alarm, alarm system, alarm systems, brake, car stereos, car theft, insurance, security, vehicle, wheel