by Eleri Morgan

Created on: October 03, 2008   Last Updated: April 26, 2009

It has become easier and easier for cars to get stolen these days. So avoiding car theft is an important topic that one should not take lightly. Insurance companies often do not pay you out the amount you should receive in the event of car theft, so protect yourself and your income by ensuring that your car does not get stolen.

Here are some helpful tips to avoid car theft.

What you can do right now;

Have Smash and Grab installed on all your car windows. Smash and Grab is protective window tinting that can be done in different shades, and even comes in a clear film.Thieves wont be able to smash through your window to gain access to your car. The Smash and Grab tinting actually keeps the glass together on the film so it doesn't shatter and break away. Install an alarm system (a level 4 alarm system is the best way to go) Install a central locking system, Just make sure you have a reputable company install this for you. Install a tracking device which is linked to a Vehicle Tracking Company so that in the event your car is stolen your car is able to be retrieved. Ensure that you park your car being locked gates at night. Get yourself a CCTV camera installed (entry level will do) and set it up so that it points at where your car is parked. (this could act as a deterrent to potential car thieves) When purchasing a new car be mindful of vehicles that are on Hit Lists for getting stolen. In South Africa for example, Chevrolet does not even feature on the Hit List and there are not many, if not, none, reported stolen. So consider what vehicle makes are popular with thieves/ syndicates (you can find out from your local police station which makes are) and if you can, rather choose a safer vehicle make.

Avoid car theft by doing the following;

Don't leave any valuable items in your car for all to see, this is more of an incentive for thieves. Ensure all your windows are closed and that all your doors are locked and alarm system activated before you walk away from your car. At night, don't park in areas that are not well lit. Choose to rather park in a pay parking area where a Security Company is employed to secure the area.

The key point in all the items above is that you need to just be aware of your surroundings at all times and if something doesn't feel right, its probably not.

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