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Hello everyone, As we head towards warmer spring weather, many of us will be using our vehicles more — whether for school runs, work, shopping, family visits or days out. This seasonal change often brings a rise in both car theft and theft from motor vehicles. We’re sharing this update to help keep you, your family and your community safe.
What We’re SeeingAcross the borough, we’ve seen offenders targeting: Unlocked vehicles where valuables are left in viewKeyless entry cars, using signal‑boosting technologyVehicles parked in quiet areas or poorly lit streetsQuick‑grab items such as bags, laptops, phones and toolsThese crimes can happen in seconds — often without noise and even in busy streets.
How to Protect Your VehicleFor All DriversRemove all valuables from your vehicle, even for short stops.Wipe away sat‑nav marks on the windscreen — offenders look for them.Always lock doors and windows, including when refuelling or loading.Park in well‑lit, visible areas wherever possible.For Keyless Entry VehiclesUse a signal‑blocking pouch (Faraday pouch) for your keys overnight.Keep spare keys away from doors and windows to prevent signal boosting.Consider a steering lock — simple, effective and a strong deterrent.Use manufacturer apps to monitor vehicle status and enable immobilisers.For Work Vehicles & VansRemove tools at night if you can.Mark tools with your postcode and record serial numbers.Use internal van cages or secondary locks for extra protection.
As the Weather Warms Up…With spring approaching, we often see: More windows left open while parkedPeople unloading shopping or sports gear and leaving cars briefly unattendedFamilies travelling to parks, attractions and events with valuables insidePlease take an extra moment to lock your vehicle and keep items out of sight.
These small steps genuinely prevent offences.
Look Out for Suspicious ActivityPlease report behaviour such as: Individuals trying car door handlesPeople walking slowly between vehicles or looking inside windowsUnknown vehicles circling residential streets at night
Report It999 – If a crime is in progress101 – To report suspicious behaviourOnline – met.police.ukYour reports help us direct patrols, identify offenders and keep our communities safe.
#KeepHounslowSafe #StrongerSaferHounslow #VehicleSafety #MetEngage #CommunitySafety 
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