THE Southern Mitchell Neighbourhood Watch (SMNHW) group are warning residents in the Mitchell Shire to remain vigilant as incidents of vehicle thefts are slowly on the rise.
Noting that thieves can cause thousands of dollars of damage for a few dollars’ worth of goods, the group have shared their top tips to minimise the preventable crime:
Close windows and lock all doors, and never leave your keys in the ignition. Remember to do this even if you are only away from the vehicle for a few minutes, such as when dashing inside or ducking into a shop.
Remove all valuable items, and only bring the items you need. If you must leave valuables in your car, lock them away out of sight in the boot or glove box before you leave. Remember the age old saying: Out of sight, out of mind.
Park your car in a well-lit, secure area.
Protect your number plates by fitting them with one-way, anti-theft screws.
The SMNHW regularly host Safe Plate events where they will fit anti-theft screws for a gold coin donation.
They have also made the screws available from all Mitchell Shire Customer Service Centres and police stations so residents can fit the screws themselves.
The next SMNHW Safe Plate event will be held at the Beveridge Greater Community Centre on Saturday, October 26, from 10am–12pm. Another session will run at the Wallan Police Station on Saturday, November 30, from 10am–2pm.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/southmitchell.nhw.inc.
