Vehicles
A lot of crime is against cars, motorbikes and bicycles, including the theft of vehicles, and theft from vehicles. Most of it can be prevented.

Bicycles

1. Get a good bike lock (D locks or combination locks are best. Look for Sold Secure Ltd approved locks, or ask for a recommendation at a bike shop).
2. Lock your bike to something secure – a bike rack or lamppost. If there are no bike racks, you could ask the local council if they can put some in.
3. Lock up removable parts (for example, wheels) or take them with you (for example, light fittings).
4. Think about having your bike security-marked or engraved.

Motorbikes

1. Always lock your bike, and set its alarm if it had one.
2. When leaving your bike for some time, try and lock it to something secure. At home, you can fit special attachments to lock your bike to.
3. Use a motorbike cover.
4. Have the vehicle marked with its vehicle identification number (VIN).

Cars

• Lock the doors and close the windows when you leave the car – for any length of time.
• Don’t leave anything on display – even a jacket can seem like an appealing target for a thief.
• Remove the stereo if you can. Also, tuck in wing mirrors and put the aerial down to discourage vandals.
• Never store your car’s documents in the car.
• A Thatcham-approved immobiliser or steering lock can help secure older vehicles.
• Think about having the windows etched with the car’s vehicle registration number (VRN), and make a note of its chassis number.
• Keep your car keys in a safe place, even in your house, so that someone breaking in cannot steal your car too.

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