Car crime causes it victims a great deal of distress - as well as frustration and inconvenience.
During 2002/03, there were more than 4600 thefts from motor vehicles in Suffolk and over 900 vehicles were either stolen or taken without consent. And yet, so much of car crime could be prevented by following a few very simple steps. Car thieves don’t need much of an opportunity.
They like cars which are left unlocked, cars parked at night in unlit areas and cars where valuables are openly on display on the seats or parcel shelf. But we can stop them in their tracks by following sound crime prevention advice.
That is where Suffolk Constabulary’s SMART campaign comes in.
SMART - which stands for Stop Motorcrime and Ring Today...
...was launched a couple of years ago to highlight the problems which can be caused by car crime and the simple measures motorists can take to deter thieves.
The campaign even has its own logo - a sneaky thief making off with cash and a mobile phone after breaking into a car. Anyone who has information on car crime should contact the police or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Advice to drivers includes:
• Always secure your vehicle. Leave it in a safe location where it can be easily seen by passers-by - or lock it in a garage.
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle - but if there is no alternative, leave them out of sight in the boot.
• Fit an alarm and immobiliser to the vehicle and, if you have audio equipment, make sure it is security-coded or portable and is post-coded.
• Etch you registration number or vehicle identification number on all glass surfaces.
• Join Suffolk Police’s Vehicle Watch scheme.
Our Smart logo is now a common sight across Suffolk, having featured on Adnams beer mats, shopping trolleys and even on the back of cranes operated by Norwich-based Quinto.
It is now on display nationwide at the entrance doors of every Safeway supermarket in the country, reminding shoppers to make sure their cars are locked and that they have their valuables with them before they enter the store.
TO READ MORE ON SMART CLICK HERE
