Keeping your vehicles safe

Dear Residents,

Helping to try and prevent Vehicle crime.

Please ensure you remove any items and valuables from your vehicle when leaving, particularly overnight and when in remote locations. Opportunists have no regard for value. In the past we have even seen break ins to vehicles for small change left in the centre console – so please ensure you remove everything. 

We are looking into a number of lines of enquiry in regards to the crimes mentioned above, including looking at CCTV evidence, Dash Cam footage as well as speaking to key witnesses who may have important and helpful information to assist us. If you have any information regarding any vehicle crime, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 101 or using Live Chat. This can be done anonymously if you wish.

Some security measures you might consider for your vehicles;

1. Anti-theft screws on VRM plates to prevent them from being removed/stolen. 

2. When leaving your vehicle at home, or out shopping, be sure to check your fob has done its job. Criminals can block the signals from your key fob to your vehicle so look out for other signs your vehicle is locked, such as folded in wing mirrors, flash of head lights, or the manufacturer app on your mobile. 

3. Steering wheel locks: Consider using physical deterrents such as steering locks for added protection. 

4. Keep valuables out of sight: Remove all belongings from your vehicles including, electronics, valuables, tools and even small change. Ensure that valuables, including car keys and fobs, are kept out of sight from windows and doors to reduce the risk of theft.

5. Keep your car keys in a faraday pouch; these prevent the signal being read/cloned/exploited.

6. Get a cage fitted around the catalytic converter.

CCTV and witness statements are being reviewed and we encourage anyone who may have information to call us on 101 or Webchat.

Below are some useful resources around protecting yourself from being a victim of vehicle crime:

How to report a lost or stolen vehicle | West Midlands Police

Prevent theft from a vehicle | Crime Prevention | West Midlands Police

Preventing car and vehicle theft | Crime Prevention | West Midlands Police

Keeping vehicles safe | Crime prevention | West Midlands Police

Thank you and stay safe