Shopping for Christmas. Some people like it and others hate it, but for thieves it can be very rewarding, particularly at the big shopping centres. At this time of year, car parks are full of people buying Christmas presents. If you decide to return to your car to drop off your purchases, please consider moving your car to another area of the car park if you plan to continue shopping. If you leave your car in the same parking spot, a potential thief may have seen you put your purchases in the car and then walk off, leaving your vehicle vulnerable to a break-in.
Many vehicles these days use electronic key fobs for opening and locking them. If you have one of these, it is a wise idea to buy a Faraday pouch to keep the key fob in. This will stop anyone picking up the signal from your fob and being able to enter your car without breaking any glass. If you haven’t got a pouch, you run the risk of your vehicle being stolen as well as your shopping – not to mention the inconvenience of being stranded away from home, unable to return easily and quickly. I recently bought two pouches online, total cost £5.60. Nothing compared to the value of a car!
So, who is at risk of car theft? Well, anyone and everyone. According to statistics from 2023, the most stolen car is the Ford Fiesta. Black cars followed by grey and white are the most popular colours for stolen vehicles. At the higher end of the market, Range Rovers, Mercedes and BMW are the most targeted makes.
Whatever you drive, and wherever you park, please take sensible precautions to prevent loss. Don’t leave things on display in the car – put them in the boot. If you have a portable steering wheel lock, use it. It is a good visual deterrent. Above all else, make sure the car is actually locked before you walk away!
Have a safe and happy Christmas.
Norman Anderson, Chairman of Todwick Neighbourhood Watch todwick.nhw621@btinternet.com
