PROPERTY crime continues to be one of our more common issues in the Shoalhaven and after having spoken previously about home security, I would like to touch on another facet. A popular method for thieves to steal from people is to target their vehicles.
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Aside from the home, this is the most likely place people will leave their valuables.
Furthermore, a lot of people either forget to lock their vehicles, or are comfortable in the belief that they will not fall victim to this type of crime, especially if they are only away from the vehicle momentarily.
Stealing from motor vehicles, and to a lesser extent boats and trailers, is more often an opportunity crime.
In many cases, thieves are simply tempted by the items visible in a vehicle, such as handbags, wallets, mobile phones, laptops and other items of value, or actual cash and coins.
It is important to try to make yourself less vulnerable by removing these types of items from the vehicle, or less preferably, out of view within the vehicle.
Tools and movable toolboxes should also be removed or secured where possible.
Always secure your vehicle by locking doors and rolling up windows regardless how long you will be away from it.
When leaving your vehicle unattended at night, try to park it in a secure garage, carport, or well into your driveway.
If you are not at home, try to park in a well-lit area, preferably where there is passing traffic.
Remember, if you see anything suspicious, report it to police.
In case of emergency, call triple 0.
For non-emergencies contact PoliceLink on 131 444 or your local police station.
To provide anonymous information contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
