At least twice a day, a car is stolen in London.
Last year, more than 840 cars were stolen in the city. Police say they recovered about three-quarters of them, in various states.
There are also hundreds of items taken from inside of cars and bicycle thefts as well.
In 2013, there were 2,780 reported thefts from vehicles in London and 675 bicycles were reported stolen.
This year, there have been 1,120 thefts from vehicles reported and 81 bicycles stolen.
Based on the alarming numbers, the London police have launched a campaign to prevent thefts, called the Lock It or Lose it program. Officers are inspecting parked cars and giving suggestions on what motorists can improve on.
“We’re looking for doors left unlocked, valuables left out in the open where everyone can see them,” says Erik Patterson, an auxiliary constable with London police.
Often laptops and purses are items left behind in cars, he says.
“I'm sure it happens every day, but as far as I'm concerned, when I lock it up and walk away, I really don't think of it,” says Keith Bardy.
But police say it’s common to find unlocked doors.
Here is some advice on how to prevent thefts:
- When selecting a parking location, consider what the lighting conditions will be upon your return to your vehicle.
- Take advantage of both natural and artificial lighting.
- Should the opportunity present itself, check the condition of your vehicle periodically throughout the day.
