HOW TO PREVENT THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLES
Chris de Kock, Independent Analyst: Crime, Violence, and Crowd Behaviour
Theft from motor vehicles typically occurs in three situations, namely:
1. Parked Vehicle: Items are visibly kept in the cabin, and the window(s) are smashed, or the door lock(s) are broken or unlocked using an instrument other than the specific vehicle's key.
2. Central Locking System Blockage: A jamming device blocks the vehicle's central locking system while the owner locks it and walks away.
3. Smash and Grab: A car halts at a busy four-way stop or traffic light, and items in the cabin are easily seen. A spark plug, stone, or bolt is hurled through a side window, and items are snatched from the passenger or rear seats or from the console.
So, how can these incidents be prevented?
Valuables Storage:
- Valuables such as cellphones, laptops/tablets, and handbags must be securely placed in the vehicle's trunk (boot).
- No items should be visible through the cabin windows.
- Essential items required at the next destination can be discreetly stored in the cabin, hidden under seats, in door storage compartments, or closed consoles.
Example Scenario:
- For instance, someone traveling from work to home who plans to make a stop for shopping should store all valuables (e.g., laptop) in the trunk, except for the handbag/wallet needed for shopping and the cellphone. These items should be concealed within the cabin.
- Revealing the trunk's contents should only be done when leaving a location to store recently purchased items in the trunk before departing to the next destination.
Safe Parking Practices:
- Always try to park in areas or garages with security features:
- Boom gates and spikes, with double boom gates and spikes at exits for added security.
- Visible security guards and car guards.
- Establish a friendly relationship with security personnel and provide them with reasonable tips for their assistance.
Securing the Vehicle:
- Before engaging in other activities, ensure your vehicle is genuinely locked, especially due to the rising use of jamming devices by thieves.
- In older vehicles, verify locking by pressing the key's lock button, waiting for the locks to click, confirming the dashboard or rearview mirror's flashing light, and checking door handles.
- In newer luxury vehicles, have someone hold the keys and test locking by pulling the door handles after walking away and hearing the doors lock.
Preventing "Scout" Theft:
- At busy crossings like traffic lights and stop signs, theft often occurs, facilitated by "scouts" signaling hidden accomplices.
- To prevent this, store all valuables in the trunk or hide necessary items within the cabin (under seats or in door compartments).
By following these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of theft from your motor vehicle.
