Drivers urged to double-check car security over winter
Written by Fiona Birkwood.
Motorists preparing for the dark winter months by stocking up on spare car bulbs also need to prepare for the increase in vehicle thefts that occurs in November, January and February, according to Tracker.
Tracker, a UK provider of stolen vehicle recovery systems, said figures show a 20 per cent increase in recoveries of stolen vehicles during the winter months compared to the height of summer.
Bill Raynal, managing director of Tracker, said: "Our figures show these extra hours of darkness allow more time for thieves to break into vehicles unseen."
Tracker advises motorists to park in busy or well-lit and attended car parks near CCTV cameras and to not leave cars unattended when waiting for them to defrost.
The company has a dedicated police liaison team, which includes former police officers who work with all of the UK’s police forces. Over 1,500 police vehicles and 30 helicopters across the UK have Tracker detection systems fitted.
It’s certainly a good tip to park in well lit areas. Not only are you reducing the risk of your car getting stolen but it also lessens the chance of you being mugged whilst getting into or out of your car and also the chances of another car running into you.
Also park close to wherever you are to prevent theft. And by all means, don’t leave your keys underneath your driver’s seat.