Police in Arun say there's been a notable rise in the number of attempted break-ins to vehicles and garages in Bognor Regis in recent days.
Officers are reminding us to remain vigilant over the Christmas period, as it's emerged there's been an increase in attempted break-ins.
Police in Arun have issued the warning on social media - reminding local people to make sure valuables are not left on show in vehicles, and that cars and garages are locked up over Christmas.
They've issued these "simple steps to protect your vehicle" online:
- Do not leave anything of value in your vehicle.
- Take all your belongings with you - even a coat may be a temptation for a thief to smash a window or force a door lock.
- If you have a garage, use it. If you don't, always try to park in well-lit, open locations and ensure your vehicle is locked, alarmed and immobilised.
- Car key burglary involves the theft of car keys from the home, either by breaking into the house or using an implement to 'fish' keys out through a letter box or unsecured window. Keep your keys out of sight.
- Sat navs are sought-after items, so always remember to remove yours from your vehicle, along with the cradle, and to wipe away tell-tale windscreen suction marks.
- Security mark your sat nav and all other valuables with your postcode and house number. Visit www.immobilise.com to create a free, secure online inventory of your valuables.
- Keep a note of the makes, models and serial numbers of your sat nav, car audio equipment, mobile phone, ipod and cameras.
There's more information on the police's social media pages.
There has been a rise in the number of reports of attempted break-ins to vehicles and garages in #BognorRegis. Please remember this Christmas to ensure you do not leave any valuables in your vehicles and to double check that your vehicle is secure.#PCSO39060#PCSO37872 pic.twitter.com/ElRyHrL9DU
— Arun Police (@_ArunPolice) December 18, 2021