Police warn Falkirk motorists to secure their cars

Now strict COVID-19 lockdown measures are in place more cars are staying parked out in the street for longer periods and could become a target for opportunistic thieves.
By James Trimble
Published 14th Jan 2021, 10:20 BST
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Police Scotland is urging motorists to make sure their cars are as secure as possible and have issued advice detailing a a number of simple steps people can take to protect their vehicle and their valuables.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “There are many things you can do to prevent your car from being stolen or broken into and these include fitting a car alarm and use locking wheel nuts to prevent the theft of your wheels.

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“Never leave your car unattended to defrost windows with the keys in the ignition. Many car thieves actively target this – even first thing in the morning when darkness can provide cover.

Police are warning motorists to make sure their cars are as secure as possible during the current lockdownPolice are warning motorists to make sure their cars are as secure as possible during the current lockdown
Police are warning motorists to make sure their cars are as secure as possible during the current lockdown

“Any insurance claim could be adversely affected as it may be considered driver negligence. It’s also an offence to leave a car unattended on a road with the engine running.

“People can also permanently mark any valuables they use in the vehicle, such as a Satellite Navigation System (Sat Nav), with your postcode and house number/name. You can register all of your equipment at www.immobilise.com.”

Other common sense advice includes always removing keys from the ignition and lock your car if you need to walk to the petrol station shop to pay for your fuel. Officers say some car thieves actively lookout for insecure cars that can easily be taken from the forecourt.

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While many of us have cars, not everyone has a driveway or garage to put them, so when it comes to finding a secure parking space police advise people not to park and leave their car in isolated or remote areas.

Whenever possible, park in a busy, well-lit and CCTV covered area.

Before people leave their car they should lock all items out of sight, do not leave anything on display and try to take valuables with you.

Police Scotland said: “If you have a Sat Nav, hide the cradle and take the system with you. Don’t forget to wipe the suction marks off the window. If you have personal correspondence in the vehicle, then take it with you. Don’t give others access to important personal information or your home address."