In Doncaster theft from vehicles is a bigger problem than theft of vehicles, and often these crimes are opportunistic, and occur because owners have left something on display when they park their car, or worse have left it unlocked while they pop into a shop or in and out of their own home.
The Safer Doncaster Partnership has set up a team to tackle vehicle crime across Doncaster. The team, consisting of five police officers, went into operation in December 2007 and will be working in hot spot areas targetting theft from and theft of vehicles. The Home Office has given the team £10,000 of funding which will contribute to its police operations.
The majority of vehicle crime is focused on the town centre areas, where large numbers of cars are left unattended for significant lengths of time. Community Safety Warden patrols along with work to bring more car parks up to secure standard are just two of the ways we are trying to tackle vehicle crime. We also run publicity campaigns to remind people not to leave their car insecure or goods on display.
The vulnerable vehicle scheme, involves the community safety wardens making a note of cars left with goods on show, and then the owners receive a letter telling them that their car was seen in a vulnerable state, and giving advice and information on car security.
Preventing Car Crime
Cars are more than just a means of getting from A to B. They often act as wardrobes, offices, telephone boxes, concert halls and have many other functions depending on what we keep in them. Often the value of all the possessions kept in the vehicle can be as much as the value of the car itself. Laptop computers, cameras, tool kits, sat navs are all fairly expensive items and they are often left on display in cars.
A parked car is an invitation to any sneak thief, load it with goodies on display and it will be an offer he can’t refuse!
Don’t leave property on view
Set the Alarm
Most modern cars have some form of alarm / immobilising system - but lots of people don’t use them every time. Remember it only takes a minute for a thief to break in. Check it has been activated before leaving your car.
If your car does not have an alarm / immobiliser system then consider buying one, or at least a steering lock.
A few extra seconds to make sure your car is secure will save you the loss of your personal possessions, no claims discount and the inconvenience of not having the car.
