Crime prevention Advice

PROTECTION FOR YOUR CAR AND CONTENTS

PROTECT YOUR CAR

Taking precaution with your car is worth the effort. Many people learnt the hard way through the inconvenience and trouble they had to suffer when they lose their car. Take these precautions.  They save the hassles later on.

THINK ABOUT INSTALLING A DEVICE WHICH WILL IMMOBILISE YOUR CAR

Or alternatively one that sounds an,alarm if anybody interferes with it. There are already a number of these available such as removable steering wheels and locks which prevent the gear shift (manual or automatic) from being engaged.

If you're a reasonably skilled handyperson, you shouldn't find it too difficult to install an ignition cut-off to stop the car from being hot-wired.  If you do get such a device fitted, use it at all times, as automatically as you lock the car.

SAFETY IN YOUR VEHICLE

Here are some common-sense rules that motorists should follow under certain conditions.  You must rely on your judgement and assessment of the situation to tell you what you should do.

Remember to keep your vehicle locked at all times, whether moving or parked. If you are driving at night, use well-lit streets and parking lots that are open to easy observation.  Be cautious of any stranger approaching your vehicle. If you feel you are in danger, press the horn repeatedly in short blasts; this will attract attention. If you think you are being followed, pull into the nearest service station or safe place. Do not drive home. You will only be advertising to your follower where you live.  Plan your route before you leave to go anywhere.

Should your vehicle breakdown in an isolated area, there are certain steps you should follow, particularly at night:

pull your vehicle off the road so you will be out of the traffic;

turn on the emergency (four-way) flasher;

raise the hood of your vehicle;

call the Police when theft offirom vehicle occurs. Furnish them with the relevant information such as time of theft, vehicle make, model, colour, registration number and any other peculiarities.

then stay in your car with all doors locked and windows rolled up;

wait for help to come to you - a patrolling police car or another motorist.

ADDITIONAL HINTS

Don't leave valuables in the car.  Remove them or lock them out of sight in the boot.

 A lockable fuel cap will prevent thieves stealing your petrol.

 Wind up all windows.

Don't keep your credit cards, cheque book, driver's licence or important documents in the glove box. It is easily broken into, and these things could be used as identification to help sell the car.

Thieves breaking into your car may only be after your stereo.  Remember to record the serial number of your stereo in case it is stolen.

 Fit a steering wheel lock, clutch and brake lock or gear lock.

 Fit a wheel lock to prevent your wheels from being stolen.

 Engrave your car registration number on the windscreen as a preventive measure against theft.

 Activate the anti-theft alarm whenever you leave your car.

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