The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is encouraging Brisbane motorists to take a few simple steps to help protect their vehicles from theft.
Prevention remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of vehicle theft.
Modern vehicles include a range of advanced technology designed to improve convenience and security, but it's important that owners also take practical steps to help protect their vehicles.
Simple measures such as locking your vehicle, parking in secure locations and using additional security devices can make your vehicle a less attractive target to opportunistic offenders.
Layering your vehicle's security can significantly reduce the risk of theft and help give owners greater peace of mind.
Police encourage motorists to consider the following security measures:
- If you have off street parking, use it. If possible, park behind locked gates or in a locked garage. Parking on the street may increase the risk of theft.
- If you have security cameras, try to park your vehicle within the camera vision. CCTV cameras are a deterrent for many opportunistic thieves.
- Consider installing a steering wheel lock, pedal box or lock, wheel clamp, car alarm or immobiliser.
- Consider installing a GPS tracking device with live monitoring.
- Always keep your vehicle locked and secured - even if you are only leaving it for a moment or are parked at home.
- Keep the keys to your vehicle in a hidden location - not on the kitchen bench or a key rack. Consider using a signal-blocking pouch for keyless entry fobs.
- Remove all valuables from the vehicle
- Most importantly, if you notice something suspicious report it to police immediately.
More security tips and information for individuals and businesses is available on the QPS website.
Your local District Crime Prevention Coordinator can be contacted to assist with an in-home or in-business security assessment.
Queensland Police is committed to reducing vehicle theft across the through a range of enforcement and preventative strategies.
As of 9 August, Brisbane police have charged 962 offenders on 1,474 car theft offences under Operation Yankee Forge.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au or call 131 444.
