TEN seconds is all a thief needs to break into a car – that is the warning from police as they revealed car crime rose by over 20 per cent in Warwickshire during the summer.
Warwickshire Police is reminding motorists to take extra care after vehicle-related crime went up by 94 incidents – from 417 in July to 511 in August.
Although the rise was in line with seasonal trends as seen in 2016, officers said said they were targeting hotspot areas with extra patrols.
Inspector Julia Brealey said: “We know that this is concerning for local people but I would like to reassure them that we are taking proactive steps to identify those responsible and deter others from committing offences.
“We are working closely with our partners to provide support and crime prevention advice to ensure Warwickshire continues to be a safe place to live, work and visit.
“We would ask people to remain vigilant as it can take as little as ten seconds for a thief to enter a vehicle and steal something from it.
“We are always keen to hear from our communities and we advise them to report any suspicious activity to us by getting in touch with the local policing teams.”
Officers issued advice on how to protect vehicles and their contents, including closing sunroofs and windows, keeping valuables out of sight, parking in well-lit areas and keeping car keys away from doors and windows.
Visit www.police.uk/crime-prevention-advice/vehicle-crime for more tips.
Anyone seen acting suspiciously around cars can be reported by calling 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress.
