POLICE have issued advice on how people can keep their possessions safe while visiting Oxfordshire beauty spots this summer.

Thames Valley Police has published advice about preventing ‘opportunist thefts’ from occurring, such as when valuable possessions like handbags, laptops, mobile phones are left on show inside a vehicle.

Officers are now advising people to leave unnecessary items at home, be cautious about parking and not to leave items on display in vehicles.

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In a statement released online, a spokesperson for the force said: “Most thefts from vehicles are opportunist. If valuable possessions such as handbags, laptops, mobile phones are left on show inside a vehicle, it is much more likely to be targeted by thieves.

Even items of little value, such as shopping bags and clothing, may tempt a potential thief to break into the vehicle to see whether they contain anything worth stealing.

“As we head into the summer months, we know more people will be leaving their vehicles at local beauty spots to go and enjoy the scenery, which is why we want to remind you to remove valuables from your vehicle and lock it.

“Make sure to physically check that doors and windows are locked, especially if you have used the remote to lock the vehicle, then look inside again to make sure you’ve not left anything behind.”

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The tips Thames Valley Police are advising people are follow are:

  • Before you leave home, think about what you need and leave any unnecessary items of value at home.
  • Try to park in sign-posted parking areas.
  • Be cautious about parking your car in isolation. Thieves can be put off when other people are around.
  • Do not leave anything in your vehicle. A jacket or coat left behind may be of very little value to you, but a thief may think it has been used to hide a laptop or handbag and will break into your vehicle to find out.
  • Take items with you rather than locking them in the boot, you can’t be sure who has seen you do this.

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  • Make sure you do not leave documents which have your personal details on in your vehicle.
  • Remember to lock all windows and sunroofs and lock all doors. Try the handle to check it's locked and look inside again to make sure you haven’t left anything behind.
  • Make use of any security products you might have such as steering locks.
  • Whilst enjoying the sights make sure you keep your bag and possessions with you.