Often people invite thieves to take an interest in their vehicle by leaving
valuable items in open view. Thieves also know that people leave laptops
and bags in the boots of their cars so it’s not safe to leave anything
valuable in your car.
When tools are stolen from vehicles the majority are not easily traceable as
they are not security marked with the owners’ postcodes and
business names. We strongly advise that tools are visibly and
permanently marked with these details by engraving or etching. Property
marking also acts as a deterrent to thieves who have to cause permanent
damage to remove the marking, making it difficult to sell these items
on.
In addition to ensuring that tools are locked away whenever they are not
being used, we also advise that alarms are fitted to vans and
outbuildings containing tools and that the alarm is set whenever they
are not occupied.
Tips to avoid becoming a victim of car crime:
•Always park in a well lit area
•Lock all your doors and close your windows
•Never leave anything valuable in your car, as it only takes a few seconds for a thief to smash your window
•Do not leave a jacket or coat on display in your car. A thief may think that it’s hiding your laptop or handbag.
If you have any information about car crime, please contact Thames Valley Police via the non emergency number 101. If you don’t want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.