The British Crime Survey has revealed, by category, the top ten items stolen from vehicles. The most commonly targeted in England and Wales is ‘Exterior Fittings’, according to this Home Office Victim Study. This includes items such as windscreen wiper blades, badges, and trim.

1. Exterior fittings Included wiper blades / badges / trim

2. Valuables Jewellery / cash / handbags / briefcase / purse / wallet / Cheque book /credit cards / clothing

3. Electrical Equipment Sat nav /tv / mp3 / pc / computer equipment

4. Car Radio

5. Other vehicle parts Dashboard / Seats / Steering wheel / parcel shelf

6. Tools

7. Entertainment CD / tapes / video tapes / DVDs

8. Glasses/sunglasses

9. Mobile phones

10. Wheels

Fortunately, motorists can minimise the risk of becoming victims. Step one is to park in properly lit areas monitored by CCTV. Step two is to hide everything from view – even small items of limited value. This is tedious but worthwhile.