Car traps set up across Bedfordshire

With so many people planning to enjoy the attractions that the county has to offer over the school summer break, police are warning about the risk of vehicle break-ins which could ruin a day out.

To help deter thieves, specially adapted trap cars – which are fitted with the latest technology which allows surveillance equipment to automatically start recording when a break-in occurs - will be positioned throughout the area.

Det Insp Sandra Evans of Bedfordshire Police said: “Over half the incidents of car crime are ‘opportunistic’ with thieves spotting something that could earn them easy money. We won’t give too much away about exactly where the cars will be places but it is fair to say that using a trap car will help us catch and prosecute offenders at a time of year when these sort of offences increase.

“I’d also like to advise people to take some extra precautions when out and about in the county. Vehicles with property on display are more likely to be broken into because thieves will risk setting off an alarm if there is an obvious pay-off.  Even an empty carrier bag or a coat on the back seat is attractive to a thief as it may contain items of value.

“By the time the thief has realised there is nothing of value, your vehicle has already sustained damage which may be expensive, inconvenient and time consuming to repair.”

Bedfordshire Police has increased patrols in areas of high vehicle crime across the county but asks the public to take these simple steps:

Close the windows and sunroof, and lock the doors and boot.

Only take what you need on your journey – whenever possible, leave personal and valuable items at home.

If you have an alarm – use it

If you must take valuable items with you, keep them out of view and take them with you when you leave the vehicle – even if you think you will only be a minute.

It’s better to store items in the boot at your point of departure, not the point of arrival – you don’t know who may be watching.

Laptops and satellite navigation systems are currently being targeted – keep them out of sight.

Remember to remove your stereo fascia – this is the best way to make your stereo unattractive to thieves.

Even small items like loose change and a packet of cigarettes are incentives to the opportunist thief.

Items with your personal details – such as letters, bank statements, vehicle documents, etc – also leave you at risk of identity fraud.

If you have a remote locking system, always double check the car is secure by trying the door handle.

Make sure your phone and other valuables are security marked and registered on www.immobilise.com.