Use these tips to reduce instances of theft out of motor vehicles

In weekly crime trends, the Sandton Police Station have consistently included theft out of a motor vehicle as one of the most common crimes in the Sandton area.

The Sandton Police Station released some tips they hope will help reduce the instances of theft out of a motor vehicle:

• Don’t make it easy: Keep windows and sunroof closed and doors locked. Thefts that occur from vehicles are often times from cars that have been left unlocked.

• Take your identification and other valuables with you: Any smash-and-grab thieves act

on impulse, so keep your personal identification and valuable items with you. Simply hiding personal items like wallets or purses in

the passenger area of the vehicle will not protect them from being taken in a smash- and-grab break-in. Thieves

may be in the parking lot watching you stow away your items. They may also be watching for what you don’t take with you. Thieves know most people have wallets and purses while driving, so if they see someone leave their

vehicle without it, they may target the vehicle.

• Stow your stuff before arrival: If you can’t carry an item with you, it is best to hide it before you arrive. Place any

valuables you can’t carry with you in a locked trunk out of sight.

• Don’t depend on a vehicle’s alarm system: Anti-theft vehicle alarms can be great to draw attention but they do not necessarily prevent break-ins. In fact, many alarm systems will not be triggered by vehicle tampering, including shattering a window to access the vehicle.

• Trust your instincts: If you see suspicious activity, find another spot to park and report your suspicions to the parking staff. You may help prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

Details: Sandton Police Station 011 722 4200.

Related article:

Sandton police reveal latest crime trends in Paulshof and Lonehill