Police from Carrum Downs are teaming up with Carrum Downs CFA, Carrum Downs Bunnings and Frankston SES in an effort to reduce the amount of number plate thefts in the area.
A Safe Plate day will be held this Sunday in the car park of the Carrum Downs Bunnings where members of the public will be able to have one-way screws fitted to their vehicle at no cost.
Acting Sergeant Paul Holtzinger from Carrum Downs Police Station said the Safe Plate day had been organised as police had seen a recent increase in number plate thefts in the area.
“Number plate theft in the Frankston Local Government Area has increased by nearly 40 percent over the past twelve months,” said A/Sgt Holtzinger.
“Police are continuing to proactively focus on the issue of number plate theft however it’s really important that everyone in the community plays their part to prevent this.
“By installing one-way screws on your vehicle, you’re adding a deterrent and an extra level of difficulty for anyone thinking of stealing your number plates.
“We are also reminding people to about the importance of securing your car after a recent increase in the number of thefts from cars.
“Most of the thefts that have been reported to police have been occurring at night and in many of these cases the cars have been left unlocked.
“We want to remind everyone there are a number of simple steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of vehicle-related theft:
– Lock your car at all times – even when parking at home in the driveway or garage.
– Secure your keys and never leave them in your car.
– Park in well-lit and secure areas if possible.
– Don’t leave valuable items, including tools, in your vehicle.
– Trades people should lock their vehicles and secure their tools even when they’re on a building site.
The Safe Plate Day will take place in the car park of the Carrum Downs Bunnings on Frankston-Dandenong Road on Sunday 14 April between 10am and 2pm.
The Somerville Proactive Policing Unit will also be in attendance to provide advice regarding vehicle and home security, as well as overall crime prevention.
