Most thefts occur because owners make it far too easy for the thief. Precautions are always necessary, the easiest of all is to lock the vehicle doors, even outside your home or when it is left for only a few minutes-that's all the time a thief needs.

Park in a sensible place, avoid unlit areas at night if possible. Ideally in a garage if you have one, or if you have one that is used for storage consider clearing it out and use it for your vehicle! Most thefts take place when the vehicle is parked and unattended in the area of your home. Most modern cars (under 5 years old) have many good security features built in at the manufacturing stage, including an alarm, immobiliser locking petrol cap and wheel nuts. If your vehicle is slightly older or does not have these fitted they should be considered as minimum security and fitted now.

Remove the ignition key and activate the steering lock even in your own drive or garage. If parking for any length of time it does no harm to fit a highly visible deterrent such as a steering lock.

It sounds obvious but lock the doors, the boot, and close all windows and don't forget the sunroof. No sensible person would do this unintentionally but forgetfulness or being in a hurry can lead to leaving a vehicle unlocked.

Vehicle Marking

On newer vehicles, all windows should be security marked. This can be with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or a unique code. A thief would then alert suspicion by having to purchase a full set of glass. Whichever type of number is used, it is worth considering linking the vehicle and its visual identification to a checking service. Many manufacturers and dealers provide security marking with a free 24-hour owner checkline service via the National Vehicle Security Register

Theft From your Vehicle

In addition to safeguarding against the theft of the vehicle itself it is also important to guard against the theft of articles or belongings from the vehicle. Take all your belongings with you or put them out of sight. Especially driving documents, mobile phones and laptops. Why not consider a removable boot safe fitted into your fleet hire vehicles?

As a business user you can become a higher risk for theft if you carry a laptop. Beaware of your surroundings, especially when staionary at traffic lights or in slow moving traffic. Keep it with you when taking a break at a Motorway service area or a pub. Thieves target car parks at these premises and are known to observe drivers place their laptop into the boot and then strike when the owner is away from the vehicle.

Tracking Devices

Automatic tracking devices which are available for added security for private and commercial vehicles, enable your vehicle to be located should a theft occur Some systems offer a panic attack button' which is also linked to a central station. Should the alarm be activated the station would know where the vehicle was at any time.