Doncaster car owners are urged to remain vigilant

Police in Doncaster has warned about the rise in number of car crime incidents.
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Car crime is a real problem in the UK. Alarmingly, one car is stolen every ten minutes. Car owners need to remain vigilant about where and how they park their cars, in order to keep them safe.A spokesman for Neighbourhood Watch Network, said: “Most car crimes happen because cars are left unlocked. There is a misconception that some cars are auto-locking and lock themselves if left unattended after a period of time. This isn’t always correct. Another misconception is that your car is too old and no one will bother stealing it. This is also incorrect – both new and old cars are at risk. Having a car stolen or broken into is more than simply a hassle, it can impact on people’s livelihoods. The good news is that there are simple steps everyone can take to help reduce the risk to their car. With only a 46 per cent recovery rate,we’re reminding everyone to leave your car locked, lit and empty.”

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PSCO Darren Hauto, based at Thorne said: “Car thieves are opportunists. Leaving items on a car seat or forgetting to lock your car can act as an invitation for crime. We want to instil the habit of double-checking where and how you’ve parked with our three simple steps: leave it locked, lit and empty. As the local neighbourhood policing team with a trusted voice in the community, we’re asking everyone to proactively support their neighbours and friends by sharing our three steps with three others. By spreading the word, we’re confident we can crack down on car crime which can be deeply distressing and debilitating for its victims.”

Personal belongings within the car are at as much risk of being stolen as the car itselfPersonal belongings within the car are at as much risk of being stolen as the car itself
Personal belongings within the car are at as much risk of being stolen as the car itself
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Car safety advice – always leave your car:Locked – a simple mistake that can prove calamitous: 44 per cent of cars are broken into via an unlocked door.Lit – 80 per cent of car crime occurs during the evening or at night. Parking near street lamps or in a busy area can deter thieves.Empty – owners often forget that personal belongings within the car are at as much risk of being stolen as the car itself.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.