For most of us, our vehicles are personal: a place containing the basics that we need to get from A to B. Whether it’s an irreplaceable CD (or even tape!) or a favourite pair of sunglasses, having your car stolen is about much more than the inconvenience and cost. The best way to avoid the stress, angst, insurance excess and increased premiums is to protect your vehicle (and contents) from opportunistic thieves. Check out our top tips.
Switch Off & Lock Up
Most car thefts aren’t committed by targeted professionals, but opportunists. Usually the car has been left unlocked. Therefore, the best thing to do is lock up; when you leave your vehicle, even for a few minutes, make sure it is locked. This means all doors properly shut, and windows wound all the way up. And never, ever, leave the engine running – even for a couple of minutes.
Keep Your Keys
Not leaving your keys in or on your car is a no-brainer, yet we still do it. If you are going for a run, walk, or swim on the beach and don’t want to risk your keys getting lost, dropped or wet, find a more effective place to stash your keys. If there is no alternative, invest in a magnetic, combination-locked key safe to stash under the car.
Out of sight, Out of Mind...
Sometimes, leaving a handbag, purse, phone or laptop in plain sight in a car is just too tempting to resist. Don’t tempt an unscrupulous passer-by. Stash valuables in the boot, glove compartment or under a seat. At the very least, cover them with a coat or blanket.
Anti-Theft Devices
The tell-tale flash of a car alarm or a bright yellow steering wheel lock don’t only make it harder to physically steal a vehicle, they put would-be thieves off even trying (remember, usually thieves are just looking for an easy target).
Pick Your Space
If you live in a city, we know that beggars can’t always be choosers when it comes to parking spaces. However, where possible, choose where you park carefully. If you can, park your vehicle in sight of your house. Always choose a space under a street lamp if there is one available and, wherever possible, make it difficult for potential thieves to access your tow hitch by reversing into a space or ensuring there is minimal room for manoeuvre.
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