Crimestoppers
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Keep your vehicle safe at service stations
We've launched a campaign, with the Office of the Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner for Northamptonshire, to help you take the steps to keep you and your vehicle safe whilst parking in service stations.
In the year ending June 2022, 1.65 billion tonnes of goods were carried by GB-registered HGVs operating in the UK, with HGVs travelling over 19.7 billion vehicle kilometres.
Thieves are targeting HGVs parked at service stations, with the most common access points being to break into the trailer or slash the trailer curtains. This often happens overnight, whilst drivers are resting and when the service stations are less busy.
The Home Office have awarded £235,000 under the Safer Streets Round 5 scheme to the Office of the Police, Crime and Fire Commissioner for Northamptonshire, to reduce both thefts from HGVs and overall vehicle crime at Watford Gap and Northampton service stations. The Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner has matched funded this by 50%.
Do you have information about thieves targeting vehicles at service stations? You can tell us what you know, 100% anonymously. Call free on 0800 555 111 or visit our easy online form, here on our website:
The safety of drivers and visitors is of the utmost importance to all service stations and with a combined approach of increased security provisions and raising awareness, Crimestoppers and Northamptonshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner are working to prevent this crime. Security provisions are being made, including installing new fencing, additional CCTV, and improved lighting.
There are many things drivers can do to help reduce the chances of their HGVs and other vehicles being the target of thieves.
- Light – park in well-lit, designated areas.
- Lock your vehicle – make sure to lock your vehicle and trailers when leaving, regardless of length of time you'll be away from the vehicle.
- CCTV – if there is CCTV, park close to this.
- Valuables – keep all valuables and documents out of sight, or take them from the vehicle when leaving.
- Engine off – keeping your vehicle running or your keys in the ignition is an invitation for trouble, no matter how long you will be away from the vehicle.
- Use extra security systems – an old-fashioned steering wheel lock is a good easily-visible way to deter thieves, and immobilisers can also be very effective.
- Insure everything – make sure you’re covered. Use a valid insurance provider to guarantee that you have a valid policy.
- Check your property – write the registration number on the car stereo, engine, and motorbike frame, which will make those parts easier to trace if stolen.
- Evaluate each situation – before you leave your vehicle or property, you may need to change or adapt your security.
- Help others – report suspicious behaviour to security or the police.
- Report it – report information you may have about those committing these offences to the police or Crimestoppers.
More useful vehicle safety tips
Do you have information about thieves targeting vehicles at service stations? You can tell us what you know, 100% anonymously. Call free on 0800 555 111 or visit our easy online form, here on our website:
21 February 2024
