Yeovil drivers are turning cars into 'shop windows'

1:28pm Wednesday 29th August 2007

Comments (0)   Have your say »

POLICE have said that careless motorists in Yeovil are becoming easy pickings' for thieves because they are turning their cars into shop windows.

Officers are warning motorists that their failure to use common sense crime reduction advice is costing them not only their valuables, but also repair bills, insurance excesses and increased insurance premiums.

Thieves have been targeting cars across the town to steal valuables which have been left on view.

Neighbourhood Inspector Mike Edwards said: "Thieves are causing a lot of damage to these vehicles by smashing windows or forcing doors. They're taking satellite navigation systems, handbags, laptop computers, mobile phones, cd players, car stereos and even cash.

"The message to motorists is really simple - don't turn your car into a shop window for thieves by leaving anything on display.

"Ideally take valuable items into the house, and if that's not possible, make sure they can't be seen. Bear in mind that under the seat and in the glove box are the first places a thief will look."

Advice to car owner is always: Park in your garage if you have one, or in a busy, brightly-lit area if possible.

Remove valuables, including phone and sat nav holders, and wipe away the suction cup marks.

Close all the windows and sunroof.

Lock your car and set the alarm and immobiliser.

Check that there's nothing on view to tempt a thief - not even an old coat or shopping bag.

Mark your portable property with your name and postcode, using and ultraviolet marker. If it is stolen and recovered by police, you stand a chance of getting it back.

Make a note of the make, model and serial number of your valuables and keep it in a safe place.

Register your gadgets at www.immobilise.com.

Inspector Edwards added: "There have also been a number of vans broken into, with high value electrical equipment and tools being stolen.

"Police advise van owners to remove valuable property where this is practical, and make the van as secure as possible, including parking with the rear doors close to a wall so they cannot be opened.

"This is a crime which is so easy to prevent - but we need drivers to help us. We are doing our bit - the vehicle crime unit based in Yeovil has brought car crooks to justice for 36 cases of theft of and from vehicles and vehicle interference in the past three months.

"So far this year officers across the force have arrested more than 400 suspects. Now motorists must play their part. If they don't, we'll all pay in the long run with increased insurance premiums."