Preventing auto theft 

Tips for taking the target off your car.

Auto theft is a common crime in New Zealand, as it is around the world. Typically it is a crime that goes unresolved. Having your car stolen is a major inconvenience and often leaves you stranded. You may also have the added stress of having to pay excess on your car insurance.

Thousands of cars are stolen every day in New Zealand* with less than half of them being recovered. Making your car less appealing to thieves and harder to steal is a good way to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of car theft.

• Anti theft systems can range from a simple steering wheel lock to a full alarm system that will immobilise the car when there is no key in the ignition. The type that is best for you will depend on how much you want to spend and how high the risk is for your car
• Giving the impression that you have an alarm system will sometimes be enough to deter thieves. Put a security sticker on your window, even if you don’t have an alarm
• Be conscientious when it comes to locking your car, even when you are parked in your own driveway
• Never leave your keys in your car unattended, even for a brief moment
• Avoid leaving valuables like CD’s, laptops, mobile phones and iPod’s in your car. If you have to leave them there, make sure they are out of sight
• When you are parking at night you are more vulnerable to theft. Try to park in well lit areas and always be aware of what is going on around you. Keep the doors locked at night even when you’re in the car. Be sure it is safe to get out if you are alone and it’s dark
• When going to your car at night, have your keys on hand before you get to the car

Car thieves will always go for the easy target so the objective is making it harder for them by implementing anti theft tactics.

If you are ever approached by someone looking to steal your car the best thing to do is walk away. You never know the mindset of someone perpetrating a crime such as carjacking and you can never be sure that you are safe from attack if you do resist. Call the police straight away and always put your safety first.

* www.police.govt.nz/safety/car.crime.html