Fit theft resistant number plate fittings – stolen number plates are commonly used to hide the identity of stolen vehicles. Use one way clutch head screws and adhesive to secure the plate.

When out and about - try to park your vehicle in a Park Mark approved car park which has an approved security standard, or if not, park in an area that is overlooked and well lit

Thieves are using sophisticated methods to steal vehicles with electronic keys - a scanner is used to locate the signal from the key. To prevent this, always keep the electronic key in a security pouch when not in use.

Fitting locking wheel nuts will reduce the likelihood of wheels and tyres being stolen.

Leaving  items on show is an invitation – power leads, SatNavs and mounts, stereo front panels, coins, sunglasses, tools, clothing and bags should be removed from the vehicle or placed out of sight.

Keys and ignition fobs should kept safe and out of sight and reach – the most common      ways to steal a car or van is to take the keys or ignition fob, either when left in the vehicle or from your home through burglary. Try not to keep your keys in an obvious place such as the hallway or kitchen.

Always lock and close the windows of your vehicle when unattended – on the drive, the petrol station forecourt or when parking an unlocked vehicle is the easiest to steal or steal from.

Fit an alarm or immobiliser if your vehicle does not have one.

Set the steering wheel lock if your vehicle is fitted with one. If not, use a bar type steering lock each time you leave your vehicle.

Also consider using a gear stick lock.

Some criminal gangs are looking out for certain vehicles where the wing mirrors automatically fold in when locked – if they notice such a vehicle with the wing mirrors still open, they will know it is unlocked and will then steal it. Make sure you lock your vehicle properly at all times.