It often happens that when officers take a report of a crime involving the burglary and theft or theft of a car, they hear at the outset that the incident could have been prevented. With this in mind, police officers have prepared a series of tips for vehicle users that will make committing a theft or breaking into a vehicle considerably more difficult, or even impossible.
What should you remember?
- the car should be equipped with an alarm system that, among other things, protects the cabin against break-ins. Various types of mechanical locks are a good supplement, as is having an ignition cut-off switch hidden in a place known only to the owner
- if it is not possible to leave the car in a guarded car park, choose a parking spot that is clearly visible to others and well frequented. At night, choose a place that is well lit and near the windows of residential buildings
- an important measure that makes it more difficult to profit from car theft is having its most important components marked by a specialist company, as well as not buying parts from a suspicious source.
What should you do when parking for only a moment?
- check that all the windows are closed and that the boot lid is shut
- activate the alarm and any other security devices you have
- leave luggage, such as bags, backpacks, briefcases and other belongings, in compartments or in the boot; leaving them in plain sight may encourage thieves (this also applies to shopping left in the car outside shops). Nor should these items be put in the boot only after arriving at the parking spot
- if the car has a radio player with a detachable panel, take the panel with you rather than hiding it in the glove compartment or under the seat
- when leaving the car, keep the keys in an inside pocket of your clothing, and at home, in a safe place away from the entrance door. Never leave the car documents inside the vehicle
- when parking on your property or in a garage, do not open the gate if the keys are still in the ignition.
What should we not do?
- pick up hitchhikers from suspicious locations or people met by chance during a stop
- stop in unlit, wooded or deserted places
- leave the car unattended, especially when luggage is visible through its windows
- stop when we are uncertain about another road user's intentions, for example someone signalling that they have a breakdown. (Unfortunately, this may be an attempted robbery).