Do not be complacent about keeping your property and your vehicle safe. By following the below advice you can help prevent opportunist thieves from
striking.

Never leave anything on show in your vehicle and remember to take your sat-nav and audio equipment with you. Always remove the sat nav cradle and wipe away the suction marks.

Remember, never leave the car with its engine running or the keys in the ignition and fit self-locking screws to prevent number plates being stolen and always lock your car and fully close its windows and sunroof when you are leaving it unattended. Double-check by pulling your vehicle's door handles to ensure the central locking system is working correctly.

Fit anti-theft devices to steering wheels, fuel caps and wheels and park in well-lit areas or in a secure car park. Never leave your mobile phone behind and do not store items in the boot, remember to take them with you.

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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?.

5. 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.

For further information on all forms of crime prevention, please visit: https://www.warwickshire.police.uk/article/2099/Crime-and-safety