According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), almost 75% of all car thefts or thefts from cars happen in the dark. This isn't surprising, since it's easier to slip away unnoticed under the cover of darkness than it is to break into someone's car in broad daylight.
The trouble is, the days are much shorter in winter, which gives thieves more opportunity to help themselves to your personal possessions. That's why it's particularly important to secure your car properly during the winter months, wherever you park it.
Most thieves are opportunists. They want to get in and away as quickly as possible. So, here are some simple tips to deter any would-be thieves and help prevent car crime this winter:
- Always try to park in busy, well‐lit, open locations. If you can find a secure, supervised car park, even better.
- When you're at home, park in the garage if you have one, or on your driveway. Remember, the more risky it is to take your car, the less appealing it will be to a thief.
- Try to not leave personal items in your car for any amount of time, but especially overnight. If you have to leave something, remove it from view and lock it in the boot or glovebox. A thief will break a window to grab handbags, jackets, phones, sat navs, dashcams or shopping bags.
- Never leave your phone, wallet, or purse in the car. That includes the glovebox or boot. Always take them with you to be safe.
- To be extra safe, consider fitting an anti‐theft tracking device. These will alert the driver that the car has been moved or stolen within minutes and can help police to find the car.
- Electronic security systems offer some peace of mind. But, as professional car thieves become better at cracking them, it might be a good idea to use an old-fashioned steering wheel lock, too. Not only are they a visual deterrent, but they'll slow thieves down, making it easier to catch them in the act.
- Check who's around when you park up. If someone's hanging around near your car, they might spot you unplugging the satnav and sticking it in the glovebox. If it doesn't feel safe, either park somewhere else or take valuable items with you.
In short, park in a well-lit, safe space. Never leave anything in sight that could catch a thief’s eye, and consider additional security measures for extra peace of mind.
