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It’s something every motorist dreads, yet over 300,000 car break-ins are reported in England and Wales each year.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent car thieves from attacking your vehicle.
Haidy Elsawaf, an expert at KeyTek Locksmiths, has revealed the five common mistakes that leave your car vulnerable to break-ins.
In a bloggingMrs. Elsawaf said, “Car thieves are typically lazy opportunists.
They are constantly on the lookout for an easy target and will often jump at an opportunity if they see one, so to help prevent car burglaries there are a few steps you can take to give a would-be burglar a chance !’
It’s something every motorist dreads, yet over 300,000 car break-ins are reported in England and Wales each year (stock image)
1. Forgetting to lock your door
It may sound obvious, but it’s all too easy to turn your back on your car for a moment and forget to lock it.
“Even if you’re only leaving for a few minutes, make sure you lock your car,” she advised.
‘Make sure the window or blinds are also closed. We always recommend double checking that your car is locked if you have used a key fob by gently pulling the handle.’
2. Keep your keys in an unsecured place
When you’re at home, it’s best to keep your keys away from windows to prevent potential thieves from seeing them.
“When you’re out and about, consider putting them in a zip-lock bag or an inside pocket of a purse to keep them safe from anyone who might see them and take their chance,” Ms Elsawaf added.
3. Park in dark, quiet places
Finding an empty parking space on the road is no small feat, but according to Ms. Elsawaf, it’s worth reserving one in a bright, busy area with lots of CCTV.
“Try to park under or near streetlights as it’s a great deterrent to those who might use the cover of night to shoot at your car,” she said.
‘The busier, the safer. As long as people come and go, it acts as a great deterrent and makes your car a risky target.”
Finding an empty parking spot on the road is no small feat, but it’s worth reserving one in a bright, busy area with lots of CCTV, according to Ms Elsawaf (stock image)
4. Keep valuables in your car
Whether it’s small valuables or larger items like bags or suitcases, it’s best to keep all items hidden in your car.
“When it comes to small valuables, you can use the glove compartment to hide them or even tuck them under your car seat where they won’t be seen,” she said.
“If you have larger items, such as a bag or suitcase, we recommend that you leave them in the trunk of the car.
“The less visible, the less of a target you can make your vehicle.”
5. Not installing security devices
There are several devices that can further protect your car, including alarm systems.
“With a keyless car alarm system, you can lock and unlock your vehicle while keeping it safe,” said Ms Elsawaf.
‘Usually there are two 5-button remotes, a controller, a wiring harness, a siren and an LED indicator light in the system. So if a burglar chooses your vehicle, they will immediately regret it!’
If you prefer, you can opt for a car security camera that records 360-degree images of your car’s interior.
“With wireless data storage available on some models, it offers a great option to protect your vehicle,” she added.