Crime Prevention Advice -Theft from Motor Vehicle

Crime Prevention Advice -Theft from Motor Vehicle

Dear Residents,

Opportunist thieves target vehicles where items are visible or access is easy. Most offences can be prevented by removing temptation and securing the vehicle.

Crime Prevention Advice

1. Lock it, even for a moment

Always lock doors and windows, even if leaving the vehicle for a short time

Double-check locking—some vehicles can be interfered with (relay theft/jamming)

2. Remove all valuables

Take bags, phones, cash, sunglasses, tools, sat navs with you

Don’t leave items hidden under seats – thieves often check

3. Don’t leave clues behind

Remove sat nav holders, charging cables, or mounts

Wipe away suction marks on the windscreen

4. Secure tools & equipment (high-risk vehicles)

Tradespeople should:

Remove tools overnight
Use tool safes, cages, or lockboxes
Park in secure, well-lit areas

Vans are frequently targeted for tools

5. Park smart

Choose well-lit, busy areas

At home, park on a driveway or near CCTV where possible

Turn wheels toward the kerb (helps deter towing)

6. Activate security features

Use:

Alarms
Steering wheel locks
Tracking devices

7. Be alert to suspicious activity

Report anyone:

Trying car door handles
Looking into vehicles
Acting suspiciously around parked cars

📞 Call 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergencies

Please see crime prevention links below

https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/vehicle-safe-and-sound/

https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/

https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/catalytic-converter-theft/

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Message Sent By
Sheela Kalkan
(Metropolitan Police, PCSO, St Ann's SNT)