The nice weather has resulted in an increase in the amount of car crime in the Gosport area and the Gosport Community Safety Partnership are issuing a warning to motorists to take more care of their valuables.
The number of cars broken into has increased and the main item on the thieves shopping list seems to be the latest must have accessory - the ‘Sat Nav’ or satellite navigation equipment.
“It’s not just from cars parked at the beach or in car parks that things are being taken, but when people are at work, out shopping, or even parked outside their own home,” said Amy Ford, Community Safety Officer at Gosport Borough Council.
“We want to highlight the problem and draw people’s attention to the importance of removing all valuables from the car when leaving it. Don’t place temptation in the way of these people, because sadly whether it’s CD’s, your shopping, lap tops or satellite navigation equipment, they will steal it quicker than you took to buy it.”
Unfortunately removing items such as satellite navigation equipment from its holder and placing it in the glove compartment is not always enough. The holder stuck to the windscreen is a big giveaway and often results in them breaking into the vehicle to look for it.
The Council and the Police are looking to put up notices warning people to remove valuables from their cars. It is also proposed to include a recorded message on ticket machines in local car parks.
“We really don’t want to make life easier for these people, so please, if items can be removed from the car - make sure you take it out – not the thief!” added Sgt Rob Kearley.
