Media release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, 15 October 2014

Safe Hutt Valley promotes good car security practice

Upper Hutt City Council, as part of the Safe Hutt Valley group, is once again reminding car owners to make sensible choices around security for their vehicles.

UPPER HUTT, Wellington NZ, 15 OCT 2014—Safe Hutt Valley is a group of organisations committed to promoting safety in the Hutt Valley. Group members, Upper Hutt City Council and Hutt Valley Police would like to remind residents about the importance of car security after a recent increase in the number of vehicle-related theft in the area.

“For many of us, our vehicle is an extension of our house so it’s tempting to leave our things in it, especially if you’re nipping off somewhere for a short time,” says Mike Ryan, Director of Community Services at Upper Hutt City Council. “But it only takes a few seconds to smash a window and grab something that’s been left on a seat—and it only takes a few more seconds to pop the lock and make off with a vehicle.”

There are several actions vehicle owners can take to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of car theft:

• Roll up your windows and lock the doors. It’s easy to forget, but most thefts are about opportunity, and an unsecured vehicle presents a great opportunity.

• Don’t leave anything in the car to tempt a thief. Take your valuables with you, or at least store them out of sight.

• Don’t leave anything with your personal details such as your home address in the car, and if you are handing your keys to a parking attendant or the like, remove your house keys.

• Another option is wheel locks. These aren’t expensive and will pay for themselves many times over if they stop someone stealing a car.

• Electronic vehicle security systems also still play an effective role in deterring vehicle related crime.

“We encourage everyone to consider their own safety. Think about the opportunities you might provide an offender,” says Inspector Shane Cotter, Hutt Valley Police Acting Area Commander. “Lock your car doors, keep your keys in a safe place inside your house—not just on your hall table, and be alert to your surroundings.”

For more tips on staying safe in your car or elsewhere, go to the New Zealand Police’s website at www.police.govt.nz/advice/personal-community/protect-property-vehicles

About Upper Hutt City Council

Upper Hutt City Council is the steward and custodian of Upper Hutt City, providing governance, infrastructure, and community services and resources, and promoting opportunity in the city for business, recreation, lifestyle, and leisure. Upper Hutt City is located 30 km north-east of Wellington City (41°07'34" S, 175°04'06" E) and boasts 70% of the region’s parks and reserves, along with state-of-the-art entertainment and leisure facilities.

ENDS

© Scoop Media