Slough Borough Council’s community safety team, along with a host of partners, conducted a day of car checking last week to make sure no valuables were on show.
Thames Valley Police, neighbourhood officers, PCSO’s, along with Slough council community wardens, CCTV teams, People 1st estate services officers, Neighbourhood Watch members and police volunteers, joined forces to help crack down on vehicle crime in the borough.
The operation ran from 2pm to midnight across the borough and resulted in 340 vulnerable vehicle checks.
The owners of any vehicles found with items left on display were either spoken to or have been written to be Thames Valley Police.
Many vehicles were found to have items left in them, including bags, cradles for satellite navigation systems and mobile phones, power tools and clothing.
Thames Valley Police were also carrying out high visibility patrols and checking any vehicles they thought may’ve been suspicious.
Anne Farmer, community safety manager for Slough Borough Council, said: “It was clear from the operation last week that people are still leaving valuable items in their vehicles.
“It’s very important that, even if residents are only leaving their car for a short period of time, they take anything of value with them and leave nothing on display.”
Residents should also remove satnav and mobile phone cradles and wipe any suction marks, as these indicate such devices are in the vehicle.
Commissioner for Slough neighbourhoods and renewal, Cllr James Swindlehurst, added: “It’s extremely important residents think twice before locking up their car and walking away.
“We may think no one would be interested in an old shopping bag or that by removing the mobile phone holder we’re safe from people breaking into our cars, but many crimes are opportunistic.
“There is nothing worse than having your vehicle broken into for an old jacket or plastic bag that contained nothing in it. The cost of repairs and time consumed can be great.
“Most car crime is opportunist, and if thieves can see valuables in your car, you’re far more likely to be a victim. Taking a couple of seconds to remove items from your car will deter thieves and make you safer.”
Slough Borough Council
