Are Thieves Fishing for Your Car Keys?

Think of car theft and you typically picture the assailant putting their elbow through the window and doing some trickery with the wires under the dashboard before driving away. In fact, 85% of vehicles are actually taken by a thief who has the keys. In many instances, those keys will have been obtained through a burglary.

The reason why that figure is so high is because homeowners are making it too easy. Police forces across the country are warning homeowners about the rising number of ‘fishing burglaries’ – burglars who go out equipped with a fishing rod or long pole fitted with strong magnet and will literally fish for your car keys through the letterbox. This allows the burglar to drive away in your car, without entering your property or setting off an alarm.

A National Problem

Police forces from Somerset to Teeside have all warned residents to think carefully about where they leave their house and car keys. Speaking to the Hartlepool Mail newspaper, Detective Chief Inspector Chris Downes from Cleveland Police Volume Crime Team said:

“We always advise people to keep car keys and house keys out of sight as unfortunately some criminals are using implements such as fishing rods and coat hangers to get keys from staircases and kitchen work surfaces to steal vehicles.

Police have been very proactive in bringing burglars to justice and we always do everything to catch those responsible. It’s also important for members of the public to do their bit to help prevent them from becoming of crime by keeping doors and windows locked and keeping keys out of sight and reach from letterboxes.”

How to Avoid Becoming a Victim

• Locking Your Door and Setting an Alarm: It should go without saying, but you would be surprised how many people forget to (or don’t!) lock their doors at night or when they go out. Remember - if your doors feature paddle and stub handles, always make sure that the door is actually locked. Simply lifting the handle will not stop a burglar from gaining entry; you have to turn the key.
  
• Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Many people will keep their house and car keys on a hook by the door or on a table at the bottom of the stairs. If burglars can see your keys through the door, you are putting yourself at risk.
  
• Keeping Tools in A Secure Location: In the same way that you should keep your keys out of sight, be sure to put away and secure any tools and equipment laying around your house – including fishing rods and ladders. 
  
• Move Garden Furniture and Bins: To restrict a burglars’ ability to gain access through your windows, move any garden furniture or wheelie bins away from your property.
  

If you see someone acting suspiciously around a neighbours property, you are advised to call the police straight away. Remember, only call 999 if the crime is in progress; else the number is 101.

If you have lost or had your car keys stolen, or if you want one of our experts to help you access your vehicle, get in touch with us today. You can call 01603 812613 or email admin@ptlockandsafe.co.uk.