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Mobile phones,
car stereos, CD’s,
bags and luggage, money and credit cards, sporting equipment and
your shopping all feature high on a thief’s wish list.
Dial Direct offers the following top tips to help keep car thieves at bay:
- Never leave your door unlocked,
window or sunroof open, even if you are only away from the
vehicle for a short time. It only makes it easier for someone
to get inside your car.
- Never leave any of your personal belongings
on display in your car, such as your bag, mobile phone or purse.
- Never leave your keys in the ignition
when the car is unattended. The biggest trap for this is filling
station so beware and lock up!
- If you cannot take your personal belongings
with you, and need to leave them in the car, lock them in the
boot or glove compartment.
- Always park your car in a well-lit location,
avoiding dark streets.
- If possible,
always remove your car stereo system. If not, ensure that you
note the stereo’s serial
number.
- Place car security stickers in highly
visible places to highlight that an alarm or an immobiliser protects
your car.
- Even when driving, keep doors locked
and valuables out of sight. Cars travelling in slow moving traffic
or those waiting at traffic lights are becoming increasingly
at risk to car thieves who steal handbags and other valuables
by opening the car door.
- If you regularly carry sports equipment
make sure it is covered either by your car insurance or your
home insurance policy, for loss and theft whilst outdoors.
- Increase your car security by having
an alarm or immobiliser that is approved by your insurer.
- Where possible, choose large well-lit
car parks with security cameras and personnel in operation.
- If you return to the car to off
load shopping, make sure it goes straight in the boot, and
avoid bringing attention to yourself.
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