Always lock your car, closing all windows (including the sunroof), no matter how long you are leaving it for.
Never leave your keys in the ignition or the doors unlocked when you leave it unattended, especially at petrol stations when you go to pay.
Never leave documents in your vehicle that may aid a thief, such as your driving licence, MOT and insurance certificate.
If you have to leave your car unattended with luggage on the roof rack try to park so that you can keep an eye on it.
Look for car parks that display the Park Mark® sign showing they belong to the Police Safer Parking Scheme (the sign is a white tick on a blue background).
Tax discs are often stolen and can be tampered with and sold on. Protect your tax disc with a tamper proof holder.
Don't mark your car keys with your name, address or registration number.
Consider joining a key registry that will provide you with a fob with a central contact telephone number.
If your stereo had a removable front panel, take it with you.
Use tamper proof screws to prevent the theft of your vehicle's number plates.
Ensure your car keys are kept in a secure place when at home. Do not leave them on view inside your hallway as thieves will often 'fish' through letterboxes for them.
Leave nothing of value, such as laptops, bags, phones or sat. navs, in your car. If this isn't possible consider installing a lockable vehicle safe in the boot of your car. Never leave anything under your seat - thieves know that this is a regular 'hiding place'.
Mark your stereo using a UV pen with your postcode followed by your front door number.
Think about where you park. At night always park in a busy, well lit area if possible. If you arrive during daylight hours think ahead and try park near to a street light. This is important both for the security of your car and your own personal safety when returning to it.
Lock your doors whilst driving and keep valuables out of sight. Do not leave bags on the seat as thieves may reach into your car, and may even break the window, when you are stopped in traffic.
Turn on your car alarm regardless of how long you'll be away from the car.
Consider buying extra security equipment for your vehicle, including:
A steering wheel lock
Locking wheel nuts
Spare wheel security device
Locking petrol caps
Deadlocks for your car doors and boot.
Security film is also available which will strengthen car glass.
If you have a garage put your car away when not in use.
Consider fitting a security post to the front of your driveway to prevent a car being driven away.
