Tips to stop thieves breaking in as vehicle thefts increase by 24 percent

The home security company ADT have highlighted that 130,389 vehicles were reported as stolen in England and Wales during 2022, an increase of 24 percent compared to 2021 figures.

According to data from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), the most stolen car in the country was the Ford Fiesta, with 5,979 stolen, the equivalent of one every 88 minutes.

Michele Bennett, the General Manager at ADT UK & Ireland described the impact that the rise in car thefts has had.

She explained: “Recent years have seen a sharp rise in car thefts, with over 130,389 vehicles being taken from their owners in the past year alone.

“Not only is this a high cost item, but losing a car can put an owner’s life on hold and cause distress if keys are acquired by forced entry into the home.”

To help lower these figures, ADT have also revealed a list of ways that drivers can protect their cars from the thieves.

First, the company reminded motorists to always make sure their car has been locked, and that all of the windows are rolled up when the car is unattended.

Whilst it may seem obvious, thieves can easily take advantage of this small mistake, often checking the door handles on cars in public areas and driveways alike.

With that in mind, the company also suggested that, if the driver can afford it, they should install a home security system, such as a CCTV camera or a video doorbell. 

If a car is parked on a driveway or on the street outside the owners home, these cameras would not only give drivers a good view of their car at all times, some models also feature sensors that emit noise or switch on house lights via smart plugs to frighten thieves who may think they are about to be caught.

ADT added, if a driver can’t park outside their home, they should always try to park their vehicle in a well-lit or busy spot, which would help to draw additional attention to the thief trying to break in. 

When a driver leaves their car, ADT also highlighted that they should take any valuable items with them, or at least hide them out of plain sight. 

The company also noted that it is important for motorists to check with their insurer that valuable items stolen from inside a vehicle are covered on their policy.

Finally, if nothing else can be done, ADT also recommended fitting a steering wheel lock as, whilst cheap and old fashioned, it is another deterrent preventing someone from driving off in their vehicle.