We are investigating a number of reported keyless car thefts in Priorslee and we want to reassure the community we are doing all that we can to trace those responsible.

“The most common methods used by thieves are to follow victims’ home or 'cruise' around residential areas looking for opportunities. If you think you are being followed or see any suspicious vehicles, take the registration number and report it to the police.”

You can also reduce your chances of becoming a victim of car key burglars with the following simple crime prevention methods which are the most effective way to deter potential thieves:

• always keep your keys somewhere safe and out of sight

• always lock your car away safely in the garage, if you have one

• fit a high quality alarm to your vehicle 

• use additional security systems such immobilisers and visible security locks

• always take your keys with you when leaving the vehicle unattended

• always keep your keys safe and concealed in public places

• make sure doors, windows, the boot and sunroof are secure whenever you leave your vehicle

• if you own more than one vehicle, park the lesser valued vehicle behind the more expensive one on the driveway, making it more difficult to remove

It is also important to remember to protect your home:

• make sure all windows and doors are securely locked

• install a high quality burglar alarm

• install an exterior security lighting system

Vehicle security

Most vehicle crime is opportunistic and happens as a result of a vehicle being left vulnerable or unsecured.
You can help us prevent opportunist thieves from striking by following
these tips.
• Park somewhere safe – a garage or a well-lit street.
• Reduce the risk of theft – use alarms, immobilisers and locking
devices.
• Obvious targets such as laptops, SatNavs, DashCams should be
removed if possible.
• Take valuables with you – handbags, phones, CDs and even loose
change can be valuable to a would be thief.
• Every time you leave your car, lock the doors and close the windows.
• Car keys should never be left in the ignition if you are away from
your car.
• Thieves will also enter a house to steal car keys. Keep your keys away
from easily accessible areas in the home such as window sills and
doors.

Preventing keyless car theft

Keyless entry vehicles, although convenient, are currently an extremely easily target for theft with increasing numbers being stolen. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:

•Ensure your vehicle is properly locked and keep keys far away from doors and windows to ensure the vehicle is no longer in range of the key’s signal.
•Place keys in a metal/foiled lined box or container, or another container that blocks the keys signal from reaching the vehicle when it’s not in use.
•Switch off the key’s wireless signal when you don’t need your vehicle. If you are unsure if the key has this function, find out in your owner’s manual.
•You could also purchase an aftermarket security device, such as a steering wheel lock, a driveway parking post or even a wheel clamp. Even if the thieves are able to access and start your car, these should prevent them from driving away. Many criminals will consider bypassing these as ‘too much hassle’.
•Other steps include checking if there are any software updates for the car itself, remaining vigilant for unusual activity in your area and having an aftermarket immobiliser or tracker fitted.

Advice and tips can be found on our website here

If you are the victim of a burglary of any kind, call 999 immediately.