We are advising drivers across the county to ensure their cars and vans are secure following a rise of thefts from motor vehicles.
Thefts have increased by around 13 per cent since 1 April, compared to the same period last year. Dacorum (57 offences), Watford (56), Welwyn Hatfield (54) and St Albans (46) had the highest number of offences.
Since the beginning of April there’s been an increasing number of thieves targeting vehicles to steal items left inside. We’re urging drivers to ensure their vehicles are secure when left unattended and to make sure valuable items aren’t on view.
Expensive items like phones, sunglasses and tools will entice opportunists to break into vehicles, if they can see them. If you have no choice but to leave items in a vehicle, make sure they are hidden in the glovebox or in the boot. Tradespeople should invest in a tool safe, if tools are left in vehicles overnight.
To minimise the chance of becoming a victim we offer the following advice:
- Lock your vehicle whenever it is left unattended and keep it in a garage when parked at night if possible.
- Never leave valuable items or tools on display in your vehicle as this may encourage a thief to break in.
- Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running, even if you are only absent for a moment.
- Consider fitting CCTV covering your home and driveway, to help deter thieves.
- Use PIR or LED security lighting to make your vehicle more visible as this can also act as a deterrent.
- Always consider parking in a car park that has been accredited with the police approved “Park Mark” scheme.
- Noisy gravel on your drive can help deter a would-be thief, as they don’t want to alert you to their approach.
- For security products for your vehicles search the ‘accredited products’ page on the Secured by Design website a police-approved website.
For more crime prevention advice visit: www.herts.police.uk/crimeprevention.