Local theft from motor vehicle

Local theft from motor vehicle

Dear members,

🚗 Keeping Your Vehicle Safe - Crime Prevention Advice 🚗

We would like to remind all residents to take a few simple precautions to help keep your vehicle secure and reduce the risk of theft or break-ins.

✅ Always lock your vehicle, even if leaving it unattended for only a short period.

✅ Close all windows and sunroofs completely before leaving your vehicle.

✅ Remove valuables from sight, including bags, mobile phones, wallets, tools, sat navs, and charging cables. If possible, take them with you.

✅ Never leave keys inside your vehicle and keep spare keys secure at home.

✅ Park in well-lit, busy areas whenever possible, and consider using secure parking facilities.

✅ If your vehicle has an alarm, immobiliser, steering lock, or tracking device, ensure it is activated.

✅ Double-check that your vehicle has locked properly before walking away, particularly if using a keyless entry system.

⚠️ Blue Badge holders are advised to take extra care. 

We have seen reports of Blue Badges being targeted by thieves who break into vehicles to steal them. If you use a Blue Badge, please remove it from your vehicle whenever possible and take it with you when leaving your car unattended. Do not leave it on display unless necessary, as it can attract the attention of opportunist criminals.

📢 If your Blue Badge is stolen:

1️⃣ Report the theft to the police via 101 or online and obtain a crime reference number.

2️⃣ Contact your local council's Blue Badge Team as soon as possible to report the badge as stolen. This helps prevent it from being fraudulently used.

3️⃣ Apply for a replacement Blue Badge through your local council. You may be asked to provide your crime reference number and evidence of your existing badge details.

4️⃣ If your badge is later recovered, inform both the police and your council immediately.

Prompt reporting helps to prevent misuse of stolen badges and assists authorities in identifying offenders.

✅ Be vigilant and report any suspicious activity around vehicles to police.

Criminals often target vehicles where valuables are visible or where opportunities are easily presented. Taking a few moments to secure your vehicle can significantly reduce the chances of becoming a victim of crime.

If you see suspicious behaviour or anyone attempting to interfere with vehicles in your area, please report it via 101, online at www.met.police.uk, or always call 999 in an emergency.

Thank you for your continued support and assistance. We greatly appreciate the information, vigilance, and cooperation provided by residents as we work together to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. Your support plays a vital role in helping us make Hillingdon East a safer place for everyone who lives, works, and visits the area.