Securing Your Vehicle: A Nightly Lock-Up to Prevent Theft

Neglecting simple security measures is common, yet locking your vehicle at night is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. As specialists in crime reduction, we recognize the significant impact that even minor preventative measures can have on curbing crime within our communities. Recently, the Laurencekirk area has seen a spate of incidents where numerous vehicles, left unlocked, were entered—resulting in one stolen vehicle and several others having items stolen from within. Locking your vehicle is therefore essential to avoid falling prey to theft.

The Risk 

Vehicle break-ins are unfortunately a common crime, often committed by opportunistic thieves looking for an easy job. Unlocked vehicles are prime targets, as they provide quick and quiet access to valuables. From electronics and personal belongings to loose change, anything left inside can attract a thief’s attention. By leaving your car unlocked, you essentially provide an open invitation to criminals.

Why Locking Your Vehicle Matters

Deter: A locked car is less attractive to thieves. Breaking into a locked vehicle takes more time and increases the risk of getting caught. Most thieves prefer easy targets, and an unlocked car fits that description perfectly.

Protect: By locking your vehicle, you safeguard any items inside. Even if you don’t have valuables in your car, thieves might not know that until they break in.

Prevention of Further Crime: Stolen items can lead to further crimes. For example, if a thief steals your garage door opener, they now have access to your home. Preventing the initial theft can stop a cascade of additional criminal activity.

Tips for Vehicle Security

It sounds simple, but always Lock Your Vehicle: This might seem obvious, but it’s the most effective deterrent. Even if you’re parked in your driveway or garage, make it a habit to lock your car every time you leave it.

Remove Valuables: Don’t leave anything valuable in plain sight. If you must leave items in your vehicle, store them out of sight in the boot or glove compartment.

Park in Well-Lit Areas: Thieves prefer to work in darkness. Parking under streetlights or near motion-activated lights can deter criminal activity.

Activate any Alarm System: If your vehicle doesn’t already have one, consider installing a car alarm or motion activated dashcam. The noise and attention it creates can scare off potential thieves.

Be Vigilant: Keep an eye out for suspicious activity in your neighbourhood and report it to the Police. Community awareness can help deter crime.

Conclusion

Locking your vehicle at night is a straightforward yet powerful step in crime prevention. By taking this simple action, you can protect your belongings and reduce the likelihood of theft. Remember, prevention starts with you—lock up, stay vigilant, and keep your neighbourhood secure.

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Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function.  Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community.  These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.