Your Vehicle - keeping it safe and secure

Having your vehicle vandalised or stolen can be distressing and inconvenient. On this webpage you will find general security advice for cars and motorbikes.

If you have any security advice or tips which you think would benefit other local drivers, please email us at scatt@torbay.gov.uk.

Lock it up

Make sure your vehicle is secure when you leave it (i.e. check that the windows are shut and that it’s locked).

Don’t leave items on display

Many thefts from vehicles are opportunistic. Remove the opportunity by leaving nothing on display inside your vehicle.

Sucker for a sat-nav

Remember to remove your sat-nav and it’s holder from view when leaving your vehicle. If you’re sat-nav holder leaves a suction mark, give it a quick wipe. Sat-nav holders and suction marks all signal to a thief that you use a sat-nav system and may have it hidden somewhere in your vehicle (like the glove compartment).

Push them in

When you’re leaving your car unattended, push the wing mirrors and aerial in to prevent them from being broken accidentally or vandalised.

Know your neighbourhood

Get to know your neighbours and look out for each other’s vehicles. If there’s a Neighbourhood Watch scheme in your area, think about getting in touch. Find out how on the Devon and Cornwall Police Neighbourhood Watch webpages.

Your personal details

Never leave your personal details or your vehicle documents in the car.

Immobilise it

If you vehicle doesn’t have one, consider getting an immobiliser. If you have an older car you may want to consider a steering lock. If you’re vehicle looks difficult to steal, thieves are more likely to look for something easier.

Your motorbike

• Have your motorbike marked with its identification number. If it is stolen, this will help the Police to trace it back to you.
• Lock your motorbike and set the alarm if you have one.
• Keep your motorbike in a garage or a secure space at home if possible.
• Remember that if you’re vehicle looks difficult to steal, thieves are more likely to look for something easier.

Find out more

For more information and advice about keeping your motorbike safe visit the Crimestoppers motorbike webpages.