Vehicle crime increase in Ely leads police to issue theft prevention advice
Vehicle crime increase in Ely leads police to issue theft prevention advice - Credit: Archant
An increase in vehicle crime across Ely has led to police offering advice to help protect commercial vehicle users.
Sergeant Phil Priestley said: “Most thieves are opportunistic and want to take as little time as possible to steal from a vehicle.
“Making the process as attention seeking and drawn out as possible - for as little obvious reward - means your vehicle is unlikely to be targeted.
“Officers are patrolling with a view towards protecting vehicles - but cannot be everywhere at all times.
“We do not want you to be a victim of crime. Adopting one or more of the ideas above could make the difference for you.
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“Please report any suspicious behaviour or activity by calling 101. In an emergency always call 999.
“You can report information anonymously by calling CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.”
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These are Sergeant Priestley’s top tips for preventing vehicle thefts:
• Ideally we recommend locking vehicles in garages overnight - but there are other security measures that can be considered.
• Parking in well lit areas reduced the likelihood of the vehicle being attacked.
• Leave your vehicle empty at night, but if you can’t, ensure that valuable items are out of sight.
• Fit window blanks to block the view into your van.
• Vehicle storage boxes can be bolted to the floor of your cargo area.
• Older vehicles would benefit from having an immobiliser fitted.
• Factory fitted locks are often good, but can be improved with after market locking devices.
• A vehicle alarm is a must - GPRS tracking systems are more affordable than ever. If you want to get a stolen vehicle back, or the contents of your van are particularly precious, this gives you the best likelihood.
• Property marking is a sensible step. Mark you property and register it on www.immobilise.com to enhance the likelihood of having stolen property returned to you. We recover lots of stolen goods that cannot be reunited with owners.
• Remove bags, clothing, SatNav devices and personal belongings.
• Visit www.securebydesign.com to help protect your catalytic converter.
• If you leave your commercial van on your driveway consider security lighting and CCTV options that work on PIR sensors.
