Increase in vehicle theft in Middleton

Residents in Middleton are being advised to be cautious after an increase of vehicle theft in Middleton – mainly in Alkrington and Cheapside.

It is understood that many of the thefts in the targeted areas are from insecure vehicles. These could be cars left unlocked or cars with valuables on show.

Police in Middleton are offering safety tips to residents to prevent a further increase.

Preventing theft from a vehicle

The most common items stolen from cars are:

• Stereos and CD Players
• Sat Navs
• Mobile phones
• Handbags and briefcases
• Credit cards
• Vehicle documents

Car thieves have stolen items by opening car doors and breaking windows even when people are still in the vehicle. Always keep valuables out of sight and consider keeping all doors locked and the windows closed.

Postcode your radio cassette or CD player and mobile phone. If possible remove them when the vehicle is unattended, or fit a security device to prevent their theft.

Alarms/Immobilisers

These devices can be quickly and easily fitted to your vehicle. The alarm system protects the cars contents, whilst the immobiliser prevents the vehicle from being taken under its own power.

Electronic and Physical Immobilisers

Electronic immobilisers are used to prevent a car from being stolen. They are wired into the vehicles electrical system and require a coded key or transponder to switch the device off.

Physical devices include steering wheel locks, wheel clamps and gearbox immobilisers. Always ensure that you fit these devices, even when leaving your vehicle for just a few minutes.

Security Guidelines

• Never leave possessions in your vehicle. If you must, lock them in the boot.
• Always take personal correspondence, cash, credit or debit cards with you. Never leave any documentation pertaining to the vehicle, service record, registration document, etc. 
• No matter how briefly you are going to be away from your car, you must remember to lock all doors, close the sunroof and secure the boot. 
• Always fit and set security devices. 
• Remember to always remove the ignition key when you park, even if your car is on the drive or when you are filling up with fuel at a garage. 
• Don't forget to remove mobile phones and detachable radio cassette players, if fitted. Take note of the model and serial numbers of these items and property mark them. 
• Consider having your windows and headlamps security etched. 
• When driving, keep all valuables out of site or locked in the boot. 
• When parking away from home try to use a supervised car park. Ensure that the area is well lit and that access is safe, as you may be returning to your vehicle in darkness.