With several thefts of and from vehicles in recent weeks, the Bermuda Police Service is reminding residents of the following vehicle theft prevention tips.

Always lock unattended vehicles

Fuelling up or popping back into your house to get something are perfect examples of how easy it is to turn your back for a moment and forget your vehicle is unsecured. So get into the habit of locking your vehicle even if you’re only going to be away from it for a moment.

Take valuables with you or hide them

Your mobile phone, coins for the car park, sunglasses, packs of medication or other items that can earn quick cash are irresistible to the opportunist thief. Remember, the cost of replacing a window is often much more than that of what’s stolen. And it should go without saying that wallets, handbags, purses and credit cards should never be left in an unattended vehicle. As we approach the festive season any shopping or gifts should be secured out of sight in the vehicle’s trunk.

Close windows and the sunroof to prevent ‘fishing’

Leaving windows and the sunroof open invites fishing for items through the gap by hand or with, say, a bent coat hanger, which could also be used to unlock a door for them to get in. Thieves can be ingenious. Don’t give them the opportunity.

Hide electrical items and leave no clues

Leaving dash cam mounts, suction cup marks on windows or cables on view gives it away that you have left a Dash Cam, smartphone or other device in your car. Even if they can’t see the device they might still break in to see if it’s stored in the car, out of sight.

Mark and lock away tools left in unattended vans

Vans are often targeted by thieves for the tools stored inside. If you have to leave tools in a van overnight, it's a good idea to mark them clearly with your name / company name and address using paint pens and seal with a clear lacquer spray. Items that are clearly marked are less desirable and more difficult to sell on. Consider using a lockable cabinet within your van to store tools or you can also take photographs of items of value. Make a note of the serial numbers.

Park in well-lit and busier areas

It can take less than 30 seconds to break into a vehicle. Parking in well-lit areas and busy streets increases the chances of a thief being seen, so they’ll probably steer clear. NEVER leave your keys in the vehicle while it is unattended.

Any suspicious activity seen around parked vehicles should be reported by calling 211 or 295-0011 right away.