Car key burglaries

Car key burglaries: "

West Midlands Police are advising residents across the region to be security conscious due to a recent increase in ‘Car Key burglaries’. Car key burglary involves the theft of car keys from the home by either breaking into the house or by using an implement to “fish” keys out through the letter box or insecure windows. Over recent weeks there has been a spate of incidents particularly in the South and North of Birmingham, the Black Country and in Solihull.

Inspector Sharon Naughton, from the force criminal investigation department said: “we are currently experiencing an increase in the theft of high-end, high performance sports cars. Advances in security methods can make it difficult to steal cars so a thief may first enter a home in order to obtain the car keys”. “We are advising people to be security conscious, as this type of crime can be prevented. If you have a garage, please use it and never leave your car keys on show through your letter box or ground floor windows.

“In the unfortunate and unlikely event a thief breaks in to steal car keys, it’s best the keys are still kept down stairs for the safety of the inhabitants.

“The good news is that officers across the force are working to effectively tackle this crime and we are making good progress but people still need to think about their own security.”

Police today issued this warning checklist:

• Always keep your windows and doors locked


• Make sure you keep your car keys out of view


• Ensure they are not within reach and cannot be “fished” from letterbox or window


• Because it is the car keys the thief wants, when at home at night do leave them downstairs, we advise not to take them with you when you retire to bed. It’s the keys they want, not you.


• If you have a garage, always make sure the car is parked in it overnight


• Use a good home security system.


• Invest in a tracking device so if your car is stolen it stands a better chance of being traced. If your car is fitted with a tracking device, activate it every time.


• Use your common sense and do not put yourself in danger – a car can be replaced


• Be alert when you are outside – consider who is around you and where your keys are


• Before getting out of your car, check your surroundings – wherever you are. If you feel uneasy do not park, drive off


• Report any suspicious activity or interest in these types of cars to the police

West Midlands Police have a number of awareness tools available to provide information about car key burglary. Members of the public can search ‘West Midlands Police security is key’ on www.YouTube.com or visit the force’s website www.west-midlands.police.uk to view a number of short documentaries.

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