Police Issue Crime Prevention Reminder Following Car Key Burglaries

Inc 400 11/11 & 243 13/11

Following the theft of two cars as a result of car key burglaries over the weekend, Warwickshire Police is reminding car owners of the following advice in order to help protect their vehicle.

· If you have a garage always put your car inside when you are at home, and lock the door.

· Always close and secure the gates on your driveway if you park your vehicle there.

· Park your car facing towards the house, meaning the vehicle has to be reversed out. This may be a deterrent for anyone wanting to have a quick drive away.

· Use visible anti-theft devices such as a steering wheel lock, even when you are parked at home.

· Consider fitting a car alarm and ensure a notice in the car window states there is one fitted to the vehicle. Always activate it when you leave your vehicle.

· Consider installing a tracker device which enables the vehicle to be traced if it is stolen

· Always keep your car keys in a safe place inside you home, out of sight of anyone looking through the window, or out of sight if someone were to burgle your home.

The two incidents over the weekend involved the theft of a Jaguar from an address in Coventry Road, Coleshill on Friday 11 November and the theft of white VW Caddy van from an address in Boddington Close, Leamington on Sunday 13 November, are not believed to be linked, although officers will examine any similarities between the two incidents.

Both vehicles were stolen after burglars forced entry to the properties and stole the keys.

Anyone with any information about the burglaries is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 where the information can be given anonymously.

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