Motor car crime makes up nearly 20% of all recorded crimes in England and Wales.  A lot of vehicle crime results from criminals seeing opportunities and taking them, but you can easily outsmart the car thief by following the following simple advice:

• Don't leave anything on display in your car - even an old coat on the back seat is a temptation for someone to "smash and grab" - they steal first and think about the value later.
• Take all your belongings with you when you leave the car.  If you can't, lock them in the boot.
• Never leave items such as mobile phones, laptops, credit and debit cards, cheque books, vehicle registration documents and cash on display in the car.
• Locks or other security devices are always great ways to secure your car and put off would-be thieves.
• When you leave your car, always remove the ignition key and lock all doors.
• On icy mornings, never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running to warm it up and defrost the windows.
• If you have a garage, use it.  Always lock your car and garage.  If you don't have a garage, always try and park in a well-lit open space.
• Arrange to have your car's registration number etched onto all glass surfaces - including the headlamps.
• When you park your car away from home, always try to avoid places that are:- unattended, have easy access, are concealed from public view and have many escape routes.