Thieves Targeting Christmas Shoppers

1December
2008

‘Grinch’-
stylethieves are preying on cash-strapped Christmas shoppers by breaking into
parked cars and stealing their presents, according to AACar Insurance.

“As
busy shoppers rush around buying for loved ones, often leaving valuable gifts

in the car, we are seeing a noticeable increase in break-in claims,” says
Simon Douglas, Director of AACar Insurance.”We expect
claims for thefts from cars to increase by up to 10 per cent over December and
January.

“Were
urging shoppers to be extra vigilant when doing last minute shopping to make
sure they are not inviting thieves, for whom the season is about anything but
goodwill.

“By
taking extra care about how and where you park and not leaving valuable items
on display you can greatly reduce the risk of falling prey to Grinch-stylethieves
who will not hesitate to steal your Christmas,” Simon Douglas adds.

According
to Police, property is stolen from cars every 13 seconds in the UK and about a
third of all vehicle crime happens in car parks.

Detective
Sergeant Matt Jarman, of Thames Valley Police, says: “Car security is in
the main common sense. Drivers can find themselves easily distracted,
especially if they are trying to manage young children as well as the shopping.
So security of the car and personal property in it is not the number one
priority. On occasions, expensive losses can be the result of simple
forgetfulness. By working together, car owners and Police can make sure
criminals don’t have a happy Christmas at our expense.”

How to
reduce the risk of a car breakin

Car insurancewill
generally provide limited cover for personal effects in the car (250 with AA Insurance, rising to 500 for AA members). Higher
levels of cover (from 2,500 to 10,000 or more) are available if you make sure
your home insurance covers personal effects outside the home

Try to avoid storing purchases in the car as you continue shopping. It is far
better to collect items at the end of your outing. Most shops will keep items
you have bought for you or even arrange delivery

If you do have to leave items in the car, make sure they are secured out of
sight. Otherwise you may fail to meet the terms and conditions of
your policy by not taking all reasonable steps to protect your car
from loss or damage

Close the windows and sun roof, lock the doors and activate any security
devices when leaving your car

Make sure you don’t accidentally activate the ‘unlock’ button on your key
transponder as you put your keys in your pocket or handbag

Be careful where you park. It’s worth paying extra for a decent car park that
is well lit, with good
security and CCTV

Watch out for pay and display a ticket in your windscreen saying you have
bought four hours suggests you won’t be back for a long time

Try reversing into parking spaces close to a wall so it is difficult for
thieves to open the boot or tailgate

ArticleSource: ArticlesAlley.com