Protecting your vehicle

To help prevent thieves targeting your vehicle and property, consider implementing these security tips:

• Lock your vehicle doors and close all windows.
• Install an alarm or immobiliser and activate it every time you leave your vehicle.
• At night park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
• Park off the road and if possible in a locked garage.
• Use secure car parking facilities where available.
• Remove all valuables from your vehicle. If you can’t, then conceal them in the boot before arriving at your destination.
• Avoid leaving your property in the glove box or centre console – this is the first place thieves look.
• Mark or engrave your property with your driver’s licence number prefixed by the letter ‘S’ for South Australia, ‘V’ for Victoria etc.
• Record the make, model and serial number of electronic equipment, such as GPS devices, laptops and mobile phones.
• Remove registration papers from your vehicle to prevent thieves identifying your home and easily disposing of your vehicle.
• Do not place hand bags, wallets or other valuable items on the passenger seat where they could be easily grabbed.
• Remove your keys from the ignition even if you are gone for a short time.
• At home, don’t leave your keys on the kitchen bench or where they can be easily seen by thieves. Keep them in a safe place out of view.
• Mark key tags with your phone number. Never include your name and address.
• Do not hide a spare set of keys on or in your vehicle.

If you have any information about someone stealing vehicles or items from vehicles, you can share what you know with Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Make a Report online.