Help prevent vehicle crime

Published: 18 February 2025

Vehicle crimes are often opportunistic and many can be prevented. Here’s some advice from Thames Valley Police to help reduce your risk of becoming a become a victim of this crime:

• Make sure that your vehicle is locked and fully secure when you leave it, no matter where you are parking or how quickly you think you will return. Ensure your vehicle is actually locked, don’t assume that it has successfully locked. This is just as important overnight even though you may feel it is safe outside your house
• Take all property/valuables out of your vehicle, even a coat or plastic bag can tempt a thief. At the minimum ensure any property is not in view by placing it in the boot
• Never leave your key in the ignition while the car is unattended, even if only briefly, for example, at a petrol station or outside your house
• Use a steering lock and alarm
• Park in well-lit areas whenever possible

More information can be found on the Thames Valley Police web site.