How to Keep Your Car Secure on Long Winter Nights

Winter is the peak time for break-ins and burglaries, as there are more opportunities for criminals to take advantage of the cover of darkness.

As well as ensuring that your home is secure and well-protected, however, you should also think about your vehicle. Car theft and forced entry into vehicles is common at this time of year, but there is a lot you can do to prevent it.

Here are a few tips direct from the experts at NLS Security.

Invest in a high quality garage lock

If your house has a garage in which you keep your car, you’re already less likely to experience theft than if you park on a driveway or by the road. This is because the extra step required to gain entry is often enough to put thieves off.

However, more determined criminals may require an extra deterrent. Manual doors can be easier to break into, so be sure to install one very strong main lock along with a durable drop bolt if relevant to your garage.

Electric doors should be fitted with up to date key switches .

There are other accessories that you can acquire to make your garage even more difficult for intruders to access. If you have an “up and over” door, why not purchase a garage defender with a padlock to prevent it from being opened by the wrong individual?

Set up motion sensor lights or cameras

If you don’t have a garage or wish to monitor yours with additional security coverage, we highly recommend motion sensor equipment. This will help you to catch any individual approaching your vehicle if it is parked on your property.

Motion activated lights are perfect for this purpose, as are cameras . You can even purchase dummy CCTV cameras if you wish, as the mere presence of this type of equipment is often enough to put off thieves.

Move valuable items into your house

Leaving belongings in your car can make it more likely to prompt passing chancers to break in - particularly if you use roadside parking. Make sure everything is removed from your vehicle when you lock it at night.

Keep your keys safe

Don’t leave your car keys near your front door, as this will allow any intruder to very easily take your vehicle if they gain access to your home.

If your car features keyless entry or remote locking, make sure you keep your fob far enough away after you’ve entered your home. It might seem obvious, but you may not be aware that you’ve moved into range with your fob in your pocket once inside.

This will unlock your car and leave it completely vulnerable.

Use public transport when out for the evening

Seasonal celebrations like New Years Eve see a huge number of revellers heading to towns and city centres. Many choose to drive in and park their car overnight on residential streets or in car parks to be picked up the next day.

This presents a prime opportunity for thieves to scour rows of vehicles for valuables. To avoid this, leave your car at home and take the bus or a taxi.

For more information, or to find out about our Auto Key Centre , call NLS Security on 0191 2267210 today.