Car Security: Keep Your Windscreens Safe

The majority of car break-ins, where the car was not stolen, are categorised as crimes of opportunity and are usually because the owner of the vehicle has left something valuable on show.  Although this isn’t the fault of the owner, they have every right to expect their belongings to be exactly where they left them, there are a few steps you can take to avoid being a victim of car crime.

Don’t leave valuables on show

It’s a common rule that most of us try to abide by, but it’s easy to forget and leave something valuable – such as a camera or laptop on the back seat. Even if you think you’ll only be away from your car for a few minutes, it’s essential that you check all visible areas of your car and hide any valuables you can’t take with you.

The best place is the glove box or boot, as it won’t tempt a passing thief. Even if you don’t think there’s anything of much value, a determined thief will break into your car for spare change on the back seat – and if they break a window to gain access, the replacement will leave you out of pocket.

Lock the doors!

Another fairly common rule, but again easy to neglect, especially if you only plan to be away for a minute or two. In busy car parks it’s easy for a thief to walk up and down a row of cars, subtly trying handles to see if any are open. It only takes a second to steal your belongings, and if they don’t break the glass or lock, it’s unlikely anyone would notice.

This is especially important for working vehicles such as builders’ vans and delivery trucks. A thief will always assume that there is something worth stealing from a van, and if they can gain easy access you could find yourself replacing expensive power tools, stock or materials. A ‘No Tools Are Left In This Vehicle Overnight’ sticker, will let thieves know your vehicle isn’t worth their time.

Hide your valuables before you reach your destination

Although it’s not a nice thing to consider, in large or secluded car parks, it is not unlikely that there’s someone watching and waiting for a crime of opportunity to present itself. If you wait until you pull up, collect your valuables, or even just a gym bag, and put them safely out of sight in the boot of your car, before locking up and walking away – this could be all the invitation a determined thief needs to break into your car while you’re away.

Try getting into the habit of putting any belongings in your boot straight away when you travel, you won’t need them while you’re driving anyway – and that way no one will know you have anything worth stealing.

Park Carefully

If you’re going to be a victim of car crime, it could happen just as easily on your front driveway or down a secluded side street – but evidence suggests that parking in busy, well lit areas, preferably with CCTV and lots of general hustle and bustle will deter potential car thieves and help to keep your vehicle safe.

Invest in Car Security

Car alarms, steering locks and anti-theft devices are one of the best deterrents from having your car stolen, broken into or vandalised. Thieves are notorious for finding easy targets and every step you take that heightens their risk of getting caught or makes the theft more difficult is a step towards ensuring the safety of your vehicle.  But remember, just because you have invested in a steering lock or alarm, doesn’t mean you can safely leave valuables in plain sight. For some the temptation will overcome the risk and you’ll still find yourself with a smashed window! Make sure to read our guide on car security to find out more about keeping your car secure.

All of these steps are a good way to reduce the chances of your car being broken into, but unfortunately, nothing will stop a determined or desperate thief.  If you do find yourself the victim of car crime, it’s likely you’ll need a window or even your windscreen replaced.

The team at The Windscreen Company are available to take your call 24 hours a day and will endeavour to be with you quickly in an emergency.  We carry a wide a range of replacement windows and windscreens for many different makes and models of vehicle, and will get you back on the road in no time! Simply give us a call for a quote or emergency assistance after a break in.