Theft from vehicles - Reading - 12-05-2008

Police are appealing for witnesses or victims of theft from vehicles in the Oxford Road, Tilehurst areas of Reading to come forward.

Officers are trying to evaluate whether this type of crime is a big problem in the area and suspect that some incidents may have gone unreported.

Det Sgt Claire Knibbs said: "It is important that all incidents of damage to vehicles are reported to us, even if nothing has been stolen from the vehicle as this will enable us to investigate the issue fully and hopefully identify those responsible."

Crime Reduction Adviser John McNicholas gives the following prevention advice to protect your vehicle;

Do:

Lock the doors and close the windows when you leave the car - for any length of time
Remove the Sat Navs and wipe away any sucker marks
Tuck in wing mirrors
Keep your car keys in a safe place, even in your house, so that if someone were to break in to your property they cannot steal your car too
Number plates should be secured by fitting non-return screws

DON'T;
Leave valuables on display like;

Mobile phones
Laptops
Credit card and debit cards
Loose cash
Private mail with your address on.

John added: "Even a jacket can seem like an appealing target for a thief, so ensure all belongings are removed from your vehicle when leaving it unattended.

"It is also important not to store your car's documents in the vehicle in case it is stolen."

For more information on keeping your car safe and how to protect your number plate, or to report an incident please call the Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. In an emergency dial 999.

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