Police on radio (From Gazette Series)

Police on radio

POLICE in the Cotswolds and Stroud division are reinforcing their car crime prevention message through a radio campaign.

In recent months officers have found that some drivers are making themselves a target for thieves by failing to take basic security measures to protect their property.

Several thefts from vehicles have occurred as a result of motorists leaving windows open and doors unlocked. Other drivers have been targeted after leaving expensive items of property, such as mobile phones and laptop computers, on display inside their vehicle.

In a bid to get more drivers to take suitable security measures every time they park their vehicle, police are running a series of car crime prevention messages, which will be broadcast on Gloucestershire's Star 107.9/3 FM until September 19. The force has donated £500 towards the cost of the campaign, which will feature regular broadcasts of three scenarios, each one a dramatised account of a real car crime incident.

"In the last few months we have had several cases where motorists were targeted by thieves after they left valuables on display inside their vehicle, or failed to secure their vehicle properly," said Chief Supt John Henry, who has responsibility for the Cotswolds and Stroud division.

"It may be that people think they don't need to take normal safety precautions if they are only leaving their vehicle for a minute or two, or perhaps they assume that because they live in a relatively quiet, rural area they can leave their vehicle unlocked. Whatever the reason behind these lapses in security, drivers need to be aware that most car crime is committed by opportunists looking for easy pickings.

"It only takes seconds for them to smash a window, or open an unlocked door, and snatch any valuables left inside a vehicle.

"Consequently, we're hoping this radio campaign will result in more drivers taking appropriate security measures each and every time they leave their vehicle."