There has been an increase in theft from motor vehicles in the Caversham Road, Vastern Road and Westfield Road area of Reading.

Police are asking residents to be extra vigilant and have provided some tips on vehicle safety:

  • Ensure cars/vans are always left locked and secure
  • Do not leave possessions in vehicles, whether valuable or not. Police would advise removing any tools or valuables from vehicles at night or when not in use
  • Remove sat navs from cars and vans including the cradle and clean the suction mark from the window
  • Do not leave valuables in the boot
  • Anti-tamper proof screws for number plates are available from Vehicle Accessory shops. Register valuables at www.immobilise.com.

Further crime prevention advice is available at www.thamesvalleypolice.co.uk.

Police are also reminding residents to report any suspicious activity via the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 101.

Crime prevention advice for van drivers:

  • Park your vehicle in a secure area (in a garage or behind locked gates, if possible). If this isn't possible, park in a well-lit street in easy view of your own or neighbours’ houses.
  • Where possible, remove valuable items from the vehicle overnight and store them in a secure place
  • Do not leave tools or equipment on view inside the vehicle
  • Consider fitting an appropriate alarm system, protecting the cabin and load areas
  • Apply a security marking product to power tools and equipment. Alternatively, etch or emboss identifiable marks to these items
  • Consider installing secure storage containers or lockers in the van to store tools in
  • Ensure that the van doors are securely lockable and consider having suitable deadlocks installed
  • Make sure to physically check that the van doors and windows are locked if you have used the remote to lock the vehicle, even if the feedback indicates the van as locked
  • When visiting businesses, try to park close to the entrance and preferably in the view of CCTV