|
Police in the New Forest are working together with the Forestry Commission and the Community Safety Partnership to tackle vehicle crime in the area’s car parks.
Operation Celsius was launched on Thursday May 27 at Eyeworth Pond in Fritham to “turn up the heat on vehicle crime.”
Car parks at beauty spots in the New Forest are frequently targeted by criminals who break into cars to steal property left on display, or property which they have watched the owner place out of sight.
During the launch, a police officer took on the role of a criminal to demonstrate just how quickly a car can be broken into. In less than five seconds, he had smashed the window and stolen a handbag left inside.
As part of the operation, additional patrols will take place in the car parks to disrupt criminal activity and to make those using the car parks aware of ways in which they can reduce their chances of becoming a victim.
Officers will also be keeping an eye out for cars with property visibly on display and sending letters to the vehicle owners to warn them that next time it may be a criminal who spots your valuables not the police.
Posters are being put up in all of the 137 car parks across the New Forest and letters are being sent to local residents and holiday makers to raise their awareness.
During the last year there were 950 thefts from motor vehicles in the New Forest which accounts for 9% of all of the crime in the area.
Chief Inspector Gary Cooper, who oversees policing in the New Forest, said: “We want those who visit the New Forest’s beauty spots to enjoy themselves without a criminal spoiling their day.
“It is not only the loss of your valuables but also the inconvenience and cost of getting your car window repaired and of replacing any property such as bank cards or driving licences.
“The most important thing to remember is if it’s not in your vehicle then it can’t be stolen.
“If you see a crime in action phone 999 and we will respond immediately. If you are suspicious of someone’s behaviour or of any vehicles phone 101 and let us know.
“Please try to record the registration of any vehicles acting suspiciously.”
There are some other very simple measures you can take to avoid becoming a victim of vehicle crime:
• Always secure your car. It sounds basic, but always lock your car, even if you are only leaving it for a few moments. If your car has central locking, please physically check doors as there are devices currently used which may interfere with your locking system.
• Do not leave property in your car. Thefts of personal belongings from cars account for two thirds of vehicle crime. However, you can outsmart the criminal by not leaving anything in your car. If it’s not there it can’t be stolen.
• Think about parking. Don’t just park your car wherever you can find a space, think about where you are and what you could do to make you car more secure. Try to park in busy areas or in well lit surroundings, especially at night.
• Take extra security precautions. If you spend a little time and money now on buying and fitting additional security features, it could save you a lot of distress and inconvenience later.
2010-06-01
|
