Motorists warned of sneaky thieves stealing keys

Posted :01-09-2005

Police are warning motorists to take care of their car keys to avoid motor insurance claims.

A growing trend among thieves is to fish keys through letterboxes, police warn, taking advantage of the widespread habit of dropping car keys on the nearest flat surface as drivers come through their front door.

Using long hooked wire devices, the thieves simply fish the keys out of the house through the letterbox or window, avoiding tackling modern alarm, tracking and immobiliser systems.

The public are being called on to be wary, and to consciously avoid leaving keys where burglars can easily find them, especially not near doors or windows.

The carries added importance as it is warned there is a possibility they may not be covered under their motor insurance in these circumstances.

"There are simple measures that people can take to significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of home burglary," explained police spokesman officer Andy Reynolds.

"We would ask drivers to please be vigilant and ensure that doors and windows, especially those downstairs or accessible from a flat roof, are closed and secured properly at night and when you leave the house - even if you are only popping out for a few minutes."

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