Stop Thief! - beware of Christmas car crime

12 December 2001: As the Christmas Shopping season gets into full swing, the AA has issued a warning to motorists not to let the car criminals spoil their Christmas.

“A thief is more likely to find valuable contents in a car during the Christmas shopping season,” says the AA’s Conor Faughnan. “There’s no way to remove the risk entirely, but there are a few basic precautions you can take.”

Garda statistics show that each year there are some 11,500 larcenies from unattended vehicles. Some 70% of these happen in the capital. A thief can strike anywhere but visitors to the capital should beware and protect their property.

“If you must leave valuables unattended, lock them in the boot of your car before your each your destination to prevent observation by potential thieves,” says Faughnan. “Don’t leave packages on the back seat, and under no circumstances should you cover packages with a coat or blanket. This just tempts the experienced thief.”

Obviously you should check that the car is locked. Do not just press a remote key fob and walk off - it’s all too easy to overlook a door or window that way. Car phones are a major temptation, so take it with you.

“A lot of people ignore the sound of a car alarm,” says Faughnan. “Thieves don’t, however. They are a proven deterrent so if you have one, use it.”

Use supervised car parks if you can; if you are parking on-street remember that although you may be parking in daylight, it will be dark well before 5.00pm. Park in a well lit area if possible.

City centres, especially Dublin, get very busy in December. The AA advises hoppers to go in early - the busiest period is from lunchtime onwards, so getting in before 11.00am should see you comfortably ahead of the rush.

Tips for a stress-free Christmas:
Don’t be a temptation to the thief - lock your valuables in the boot!
Don’t park illegally
Don’t block pedestrian streets or crossings
Don’t park or drive in bus lanes
Don’t be a round hog
Do be courteous on the road
Do keep to your lane
Do park before 11.00am for greater comfort
Do use off-street car parks
Lock the car! It’s all too easy to forget the obvious.

TW