THE MISSING LIST: SAFETY GUIDE

Here's some advice that is aimed at minimising the possibility of you, your loved ones, or your possessions hitting the missing list. Scroll through or use the links below to jump to subjects covered.

HOME - Physical Security - Perimeter Protection - Bogus Callers

OUTSIDE - Personal Safety - Public Transport - Self Defence - Mobile Phones -

POSSESSIONS - Valuables - General - Antiques - ELECTRONIC - Identity Theft

AUTO CRIME - Immobilisers - Security Etching - Contents - Parking

HOME - PHYSICAL SECURITY

Doors

Many doors offer as much protection from a determined criminal without a key as they do with one, so you could be at risk despite any other security measures you might employ. This is particularly true of outside doors that include glass, which can easily be smashed to aid a thief's entry.

Outside doors are safest when fitted with what is called a "five-lever mortice deadlock". You can buy these in most DIY shops, but be sure to look at the facing plate (that's the bit in the door where the bolt pops out when the key is turned).

In some cases, your external door may not be thick enough for a five-lever mortice lock, as the recommended thickness is 44mm, if it isn't, you should look for a "high security rim deadlock" also carrying the British Standard BS3621.

Door hinges also need to be sturdy as thieves can easily remove them. Make sure they are secured with good long screws, and for extra security fit hinge bolts to reinforce the hinge side of the door against attack.

If you are replacing your whole door rather than the locks, consider a fibreglass door and make sure the frame is sturdy. Glass in doors can be prone to attack but you can minimise the risk by fitting toughened laminated glass (two sheets of glass with a plastic sheet between them).

All doors that you would usually lock from the inside should be fitted with mortice security bolts, one third from the top of the door and one third from the bottom. Laminated glass is the best security option for glazed areas and wooden beading should be glued and fixed with security screws. On modern double glazed units ensure the beading, which holds the glass in, is not on the outside as this makes it easy for a thief to remove the glass.

Remember, quality locks and bolts are only as strong as the door and the frame to which they are fitted. Check that the frame is well fixed, and if woodwork is weak or rotten make sure you replace it.

Letterbox

Fit a restrictor to the inside of your letterbox to stop anyone reaching through to release any locks and bolts, and fit a peephole, otherwise known as a "viewer", so you can see who's knocking before opening the door. And whatever you do, don't leave a spare key hanging inside the letterbox

Patio doors

Patio doors are especially vulnerable to break-ins, so additional security locks should be fitted at the top and bottom to stop the frame being lifted off the tracks, and ensure that the sliding section is always on the inside. A multi-lock system is recommended with mortice security bolts with removable keys at the top and bottom of both doors, and locks that prevent the doors from being lifted out of their runners. In addition to a multi-lock you should consider installing further security devices such as a burglar alarm or security lighting for overall protection.

Windows

If the windows are timber framed make sure they are robust and free from wood rot. Also ensure they are fixed with wooden beading which are fitted with security screws rather than pins or putty. Likewise, metal-framed windows should be checked for corrosion and loose catches.

Modern PVCu windows are less prone to deterioration, but have their own problems associated with security. Perhaps the best known of these is the positioning of the beading. Some PVCu units, especially the older ones, have the beading (these are strips that hold the window in place) fitted on the outside. Whilst this might make them easier to fit, it also makes windows easy for a burglar to remove. Glazing clips and security tape can help here.

Security tests developed by British Standards help to indicate which windows are more superior. PAS 011 is a test of the whole system, including hinges and latches (but not the actual glass). Look for BS 7412 - PAS 011 for PVCu systems, or BS 644 - PAS 011 for timber. If displayed, these tell you that the windows have been tested and have reached the standard. BS 4873 applies to aluminum frames and BS 6510 to steel.

Good key operated window locks make the overall security of your home much better, so get some fitted. Many insurance companies now insist that these are fitted - so check your policy closely. PVCu systems tend to use locks. If not they can be retrofitted, but make sure this is done properly otherwise you may damage the unit, which could prove expensive.

When it comes to the glass itself, it's worth noting that modern double glazed units are hard to break, although it's not impossible for a determined thief to smash them. Laminated glass offers the best protection. If used on both the outside and the inside, laminated glass is incredibly secure, but using it on the inside alone is enough. West Midlands police recommend laminated glass of at least 6.4 mm thick that conforms to PAS 011.

A good tip for making your windows more secure is to have Venetian blinds. These are not just good for stopping people seeing in during the day, without cutting out the light - burglars hate them. They are awkward to get past and make a lot of noise, something no thief is all that keen on.

Back to top>>

HOME - PERIMETER PROTECTION

Walls fences and shrubbery

Surrounding your home with an eight-foot fence topped with barbed wire or a wall topped with glass might make you feel more secure. However, this could actually do more harm than good. In reality, barbed wire is unlikely to keep a determined burglar out, but could injure a child who is just trying to get his ball back.

Such measures could also result in legal action being taken against you under the Occupiers Liability Act. Such a fortress mentality can create an atmosphere of fear and make an area look run down and unpleasant.

Instead, we recommend a more subtle approach when it comes to defending and marking out the boundaries of your home. Research has shown that a simple white line is enough to keep unwelcome trespassers off your property, but instead of paint (which might not go down too well with the neighbours), try a low fence or a change of texture and colour in the ground at the edge of your land using different kinds of paving or plants.

Plants are actually a very good way of defending property, particularly prickly plants like Pyracantha, Rosa Rugosa, or any kind of Berberis, as these can form an effective barrier and are also attractive to look at. Likewise, walls and fences can be topped with trellis and covered in climbing plants.

Trellis will break and make a noise if anyone tries to get over it, and climbing plants can get in the way if people try to get over - and you won't be running the risk of getting sued, as you might with barbed wire.

Whilst most people prefer higher boundaries at the rear of their house for more privacy, low fences or shrubs are better at the front because they allow people to see who is visiting your property, and what they are up to. Marking out and defending the boundaries of your home is an effective way of discouraging unwelcome visitors and works best if you don't make your house look like a fortress.

Back to top>>

HOME - BOGUS CALLERS

Unfortunately, you can't always be sure that people turning up on your doorstep are who they say they are. Bogus callers, as they are sometimes called, can be very convincing and very persuasive. They may say that their car has broken down and they need to phone someone for help

They may pretend to be a workman, saying that they need to check your electricity or water. They might even claim to be from the council and that they are carrying out a local survey. Whatever reason a caller gives, you need to be sure that they aren't just trying to get into your home to steal something.

There are around 12,000 incidents of "distraction burglary" each year, where callers get into homes and then steal cash or valuables while the occupier is distracted in some way. Sometimes they work in pairs, with one doing the talking while the other is stealing and they often target the elderly

Be on your guard every time the doorbell rings, or there's a knock at your door. Look out of your window to see who's there first and if you don't know who the person is, open the window slightly and talk to them that way, rather than opening your door. Alternatively, have a viewer fitted in your front door so that you can take a good look at who's there first. If your eyesight isn't so good, don't worry as you can now get wide-angle viewers to help you see better.

Put the door chain before opening the door and talk through the gap. You could even fit a small mirror to the wall next to the door so that you can see the person. When the caller has left , don't forget to unhook the chain so that any friend or relative you have given a key to can still get in.

Make sure your back door is locked if someone knocks at your front door. Sometimes thieves work together with one coming in the back way, while the other keeps you talking at the front.

Keeping the chain on the door, ask callers from the council or any other organisation to pass through some identification. If you need your glasses to check this don't think it's rude to close the door and go and get them. A genuine caller won't mind. If you're still not sure, ask the caller to leave and tell them to write and make an appointment so that someone else can be with you the next time they call. The basic rule is if you don't know the person at your door don't let them in.

As part of the Government's "Lock, Stop, Chain, Check" campaign, local councils, social services and Age Concern centres have further information they can provide to older people. They can also help with door viewers, chains and mirrors, and in certain circumstances, may be able to supply a personal attack alarm that connects through to a control centre

They may pose as water, electricity or gas-board workers, council workers or police officers; so they can steal money or property from your home. You can prevent this type of crime if you take precautions.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this crime, remember the following three steps:

Stop before you open the door.

Chain put it on.

Check ask the caller for their identification - and check it - before letting them in. Use the phone number in the phone book, not on an identity

Back to top>>

OUTSIDE - PERSONAL SAFETY

On foot

Be aware of your surroundings, plan where you're going and how you're going to get there. Let other people know where you're going and when you expect to get back - if you change your plans let them know.

Although confidence is hugely important, don't think that "it'll never happen to me".Attacks on people are extremely rare, but it's worth being prepared just in case, and being prepared will actually make you feel more confident anyway.

If you're planning any journey on foot, even just a short walk, plan your route in advance so that that you don't appear lost. Carry a mobile phone with you, and have useful numbers programmed into your phone for speedy access.

Carry a personal attack alarm. Again, having one with you will make you feel that bit more confident. Stick to busy, well-lit places. Avoid underpasses or shortcuts unless the lighting is good and you're confident they're safe. If you can, avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar territory.

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are easy to move in. Carry your bag slung across your body with any zips or openings on the inside. Walk facing oncoming traffic. If you have to walk in the same direction as traffic and a car stops, turn around and walk the other way so the car cannot follow you.

If you think you're being followed on foot, cross a road and keep walking. If you still think you're being followed make for somewhere busy and well lit. Don't be afraid to ask for help.

Back to top>>

OUTSIDE - PUBLIC TRANSPORT

On the bus

At night use a bus stop you know is usually busy and is well lit. Know the departure and arrival times and and make sure that you let someone at the other end know which bus you plan to catch. They could always meet you at your stop if you are really feeling insecure. Sit close to the driver

If someone starts up a conversation, be pleasant and confident, but don't give away personal information like where you live or work.

By train

Wait on a well-lit section of the platform, close to the exit or where there are other people. Many stations now have CCTV cameras and staff that are trained to deal with emergencies. When you get on the train try to sit in a busy compartment. Keep bags and personal possessions next to you.

If you feel uncomfortable switch seats or even consider getting off the train and catching the next one. Only do this if the station where you are getting off is manned and busy

Know where the emergency button or cord is situated or any help points at the station

Taking a taxi

Carry the phone number of a taxi or mini cab firm you know. When you book ask them for the driver's name and the type of car. Try and book the taxi you need to bring you home before you go out. Give your name and when the driver arrives make sure they know the name it was booked under.

If you have to book your taxi in a public place, do it quietly where people are unlikely to overhear your name and address.

If you can, share a taxi with a friend and have your money ready and keys handy at the end of your journey so that you can enter your home quickly.

If ever you feel uneasy in a taxi ask the driver to stop in a busy place that you know well, and get out.

Back to top>>

OUTSIDE - SELF DEFENCE

People often assume that "self-defence" means fighting back. It doesn't. If the worst should ever happen do as much as you can to avoid a confrontation - "anticipation and avoidance" are the key words. If you get caught up in a situation, try to talk to an aggressor without provoking them

Practice relaxation, as appearing fearful or stressed can actually provoke an attack. Remember that body language is important in aggressive situations, so maintain a comfortable distance between you and the aggressor.

If you don't have an alarm, just make a noise yourself by screaming as loud as you can, or shouting "call the police" - if you're loud enough this can be just as effective as a personal alarm. If you have an alarm, use it and shout as well.

Use a gas or electronic attack alarm, as these give out a short piercing sound which may act to temporarily disorientate an attacker, hopefully giving you enough time to escape. Carry it somewhere where you can get to it quickly - don't leave it buried at the bottom of your bag.

Steady yourself if danger threatens. Panic can disable you, so again its useful to learn how to keep control in a difficult situation. And if you must fight back, adopt what police term the "bash and dash" approach. Primary targets are the eyes, nose, mouth, ears, throat, groin, knees or shins; choose whichever is easiest to get to.

If held from behind don't struggle forward, you'll only exhaust yourself. Instead throw yourself backwards to surprise your attacker or stomp on the lower leg or foot.

You have the right to defend yourself with reasonable force and this includes using items you have with you such as an umbrella, bag, briefcase or keys. However, don't carry or use anything that the law would regard as an offensive weapon. Once you've achieved your primary aim of stunning or surprising your attacker, get away as fast as you can

If you manage to overcome them don't attack again, you could be putting yourself in more danger or you could end up being charged with assault. These are just the very basics of self-defence, but to learn more about it and get some exercise at the same time, find a local self-defence class and encourage your family along to join you. Just remember "anticipation and avoidance" are the best forms of defence.

Back to top>>

OUTSIDE - MOBILE PHONES

Children of school age are more likely to be victims of mobile phone theft than adults. It's an even sadder fact that some of these thefts involve threats or actual violence. But, there are ways in which you can protect yourself. Around a quarter of thefts happen when the phone is being used or can be seen.

The figures are far higher in city centres, so if you are out in the open in a busy place you should stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. In fact, London's Metropolitan Police advice that you treat your mobile phone like you are holding a £100 note in your hand!

Did you know?

	1.	90% of offenders are male and 80% of victims are also male
	2.	The majority of robberies are committed by offenders working in groups
	3.	The peak age for offenders is 16
	4.	The peak time for theft of mobiles belonging to people under the age of 18 is between 2pm and 10pm
	5.	For over 18s the peak time for theft is between 10pm and 6am
	6.	A mobile phone is stolen around every three minutes in the UK

Using this knowledge you can understand the situations in which you could be more vulnerable to mobile theft.

In addition, make a note of the IMEI number of your phone and report it to the police imediately if your phone is stolen. The IMEI number is a unique 15-digit serial number which can be accessed by keying *#06# into most phones, or looking behind the battery of your phone.

If you type *#06# into your mobile phone your IMEI number should be displayed - take a note of it, because if your mobile gets lost or stolen, your mobile phone operator can use it to bar the handset.

*#06# - try it now!

Also mark your phone with your postcode and street number and register your phone with the mobile phone company - this may allow them to block the phone if it is stolen. You can also use your phone's security lock code or PIN to stop anyone else using it. for more information about activating your PIN, refer to the manual that came with your handset.

Back to top>>

OUTSIDE - VALUABLES

It seems we all need to carry more of our valuable personal possessions around with us these days - the cash in your wallet or purse, chequebooks, credit cards, personal organisers and mobile phones are just some of the everyday items that are sorely missed if they are stolen

All these possessions might seem invaluable, but according to the police the best advice for hanging on to your possessions is "only take what you need with you". They suggest you learn to minimise the amount of possessions you carry with you. If you don't need a camera with you, don't take it and the same goes for cash and credit cards, only take what cash you need and don't take all your credit cards with you, just the ones you are likely to use.

Keep your purse or wallet somewhere where you can feel it, such as an inside jacket or trouser pocket. Pockets you can zip or button are best. Check every now and then to make sure you still have your wallet or purse on you, but don't make this too obvious as pickpockets can spot you doing this. Likewise, keep your mobile phone out of sight - in a zipped up pocket is best. If you carry a bag, strap it across your chest and keep hold of it, but at the same time try not to look overly cautious. Keep the zip or opening towards you. Be aware that back-pack style bags are especially vulnerable to thieves.

Do not leave your bag unattended in a public place, such as in a pub, coffee bar or shop. If you're trying on shoes in a shop for example, don't walk even a short distance away from your bag. Keep it with you or ask the shop assistant to hold it for you. Try to appear relaxed, but at the same time be thoughtful about your surroundings. Pickpockets like busy streets and crowded places, and someone bumping in to you could well be a pickpocket. If this happens, check you still have your things with you, but again don't make it too obvious that you're doing this.

If something is stolen, go to the nearest police station or call the police. However, don't ring using 999 unless you have actually caught someone in the act and have managed to apprehend them. Think carefully before chasing after someone or trying to restrain a thief. The value of what they have stolen may be minor compared to the consequences of being attacked. Always put your own safety first.

Back to top>>

POSSESSIONS - GENERAL

Invisible protection

Invisible marking is the other method of property marking. This is best for antiques or valuable property that would lose value if spoiled by permanent marking. Police usually check stolen property with a special ultra-violet lamp, so an ultra-violet (UV) marker pen should be used

Just as for permanent marking, use your postcode and mark again if you move house. The police also say that it is important to remember that UV marking fades and will need to be renewed every so often.

Most police forces run schemes that let you borrow an UV or ceramic marker, and you can buy them at most DIY stores. However, in some cases, chemicals can be used to remove invisible marking, and as it fades quickly, you should remember to regularly update your markings.

Although you can't see it with the naked eye, invisible marking can still be a deterrent to burglars, but you must let them know you've done it by using stickers from the police saying, "property in this home has been marked". Contact your local police for more details about this.

When it comes to deciding which items to mark, the answer is "up to you". Think about what you value most and what might be attractive to thieves. The truth is almost anything can be a target for theft, so why not mark everything?

It's worth keeping a property list or inventory of all your household possessions, and be sure to mark the things that you own as you compile your list, including items kept in your shed or garage. Finally, where your property is marked is important, especially if engraving or punching.

The chances are you'll want to keep the mark out of site, so try marking underneath or around the back of the item. The most important thing to remember is to choose a surface that can't be removed without spoiling the basic appearance or performance of the item. If thieves can't remove your mark without breaking your property, then it's worthless and they probably won't want it.

Back to top>>

POSSESSIONS - ANTIQUES

Antiques security

Are your belongings at risk? Beat the burglars and take positive action to secure your possessions, with our guide to protecting your antiques

Documenting items

An inventory, or list of your antiques collection, will be invaluable for keeping a detailed record of each antique in your collection to prove ownership in the event of an insurance claim. New purchases should be documented in an inventory book, and photographed as soon as possible. Keep the receipts of anything you have purchased with your inventory.

To begin an inventory of your collection make a list of every object you wish to include. Then, write down the following information, for each item:

	1.	Where it came from.
	2.	The date it was bought or acquired.
	3.	The price paid for it.
	4.	A full description of the item, including its size, what it's made from, and any decorative features.
	5.	A report of its condition, including cracks, chips, alterations or restoration. This should be updated whenever you have a piece restored.
	6.	Anything else you know about the object's history.

Photographing items

It's vitally important to have a clear photo of your antiques. You may want to enlist the help of a professional photographer to photograph your collection. If you observe a few simple guidelines it's simple to undertake yourself. It's best to use colour film, outdoors in natural daylight

Choose a day when there's a light cloud cover, so the sunlight is not too harsh and the shadows aren't noticeable. To get the best results, stand with the sun behind you, level with the object, and close enough to fill the view finder. If the objects are very small, photograph them against a white background, unless the object itself is predominantly white, in which case a grey or black background. It's also useful to include a scale reference, such as a ruler placed beside the object. If the object is behind glass, stand slightly to one side to avoid reflections and glare.

Take at least one shot of each object, as well as close-up shots of any identifying scratches, bumps or marks on each piece. These detail shots are especially important if the object is likely to be similar to many others. As well as taking individual photographs, it's also a good idea to take general shots of your room. This will help you remember any smaller items which may be forgotten.

Remember to keep your photographs together in a safe place. Ideally they should be filed with your inventory entry for each object. It's also wise to store a copy of photographs somewhere else for safekeeping; for example, with your bank or solicitor.

Arts and Antiques Squad

Photographs of any stolen antiques can be logged via your local police office with the Art and Antiques Squad at Scotland Yard. This police department has a huge national database, which contains descriptions and photographic images of works of antiques and art stolen throughout the country.

When stolen property is recovered, the Art and Antiques squad can identify the rightful owner - provided the object has been logged on their computer system.

Recovering your property

You can assist the recovery of any stolen property by marking your belongings with a security pen (available through the Crime Prevention office) which is only visible under ultraviolet light. However, many collectors prefer not to mark their antiques in this way, because the pen is indelible; should you want to sell the item at a later date it could deter prospective buyers.

However, by far the best way of helping the police to retrieve your possessions is by supplying them with as much information about the stolen property as possible

Back to top>>

HOME - GENERAL PREVENTION

Try to prevent people from seeing into your home because there's no point advertising the things you own. Draw your curtains at night, but not during the day - this makes it look like you're out. Venetian are good as these allow light in to your home but restrict viewing from the outside.

Also, think about buying "lock down" devices for your personal computer, which fix your PC to the wall, floor or desk using a security cable or plate. Remember to regularly back-up important data held on your computer. It's bad enough having your PC stolen without losing all the information held on it.

You can also buy lock down plates for video recorders, DVD players and TVs, although these can be more difficult to get hold of and might restrict your options if you need to spring clean! And they may only fix your items to the stand or cabinet, they'll put off all but the most determined of thieves.

Some brands of electrical goods even have built-in security devices, such as video recorders with PIN numbers that prevent others using them. So browse round the shops before making your choice. Check what other security devices are available at your local DIY or computer store and don't forget property marking is vital for all electrical equipment.

If these options sound a little bit too expensive, maybe you could get yourself an ultra-violet marker pen. You write your postcode on your valuables, but it's almost invisible to the naked eye. But the police can see the writing with a special lamp.

Marking your property is one of the most simple and effective ways of protecting your possessions.

For a start, property marking puts burglars off because it let's others know that the item has been stolen, making it much more difficult to sell on. The other big advantage is that it makes tracing and returning your stolen property a lot easier for police.

Make sure you engrave with a fine drill or sharp-pointed tool, and use a template or stencil to keep it neat and tidy. Punching is a form of permanent marking that is done with a hammer and a set of punches bearing numbers and letters. This method is good for bicycles, mowers, engines or other sturdy metal objects, but don't use this on aluminium as it's easily damaged. Of course, you could just improvise and scratch your postcode on it with a sharp object, depending on how happy you expect to be with the final appearance.

Back to top>>

ELECTRONIC - IDENTITY THEFT

The emergence of "identity theft" makes the protection of personal information extremely important. So here are a few steps to protect your identity from theft.

Identity theft is a growing problem, but these simple steps reduce your risk. If you throw away credit card receipts and bills, make sure that you rip them up, or shred them if possible. Thieves can use even the most mundane of personal details to help them "verify" that they are someone they aren't

One of the most common ways of obtaining personal details is "bin-raiding". This is surprisingly common in affluent areas and is spreading out of towns to the countryside; with 75% of local authorities now admitting it happens regularly in their area.

An exercise carried out with the support of Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire Police analysed the contents of hundreds of household bins to see what people were throwing away. It found that 86% of domestic rubbish contained information helpful to fraudsters. Three quarters of the bins that were checked contained the full name and address of at least one person from the household, while 20% of bins contained a bank account number and sort code that could be linked to the name and address of a person from the house.

Anything containing personal information that you intend to throw out should be destroyed before it is put in the bin. Use a household paper shredder. If you think you're the victim of identity theft, report it to the police, local authority and relevant Government departments or companies immediately.

So don't keep all of your bills, receipts and other personal documents in an obvious place, if you can lock it away. If you don't have anywhere to lock it, try and keep it somewhere out of the way, or separate it out. Consider investing in a shredder! Identity thieves will also try to dupe you into giving personal information either in person, over the phone or by using official sounding e-mails. And of course, personal computers can hold plenty of information useful to fraudsters

Be suspicious of anyone seeking too much personal information, and don't be afraid to challenge them by asking "why do you need those details?" - a legitimate enquirer won't mind you asking. Make sure you store all important documents and details, such as your birth certificate, national insurance number, receipts and bank statements, in a safe place

As soon as you go online you are vulnerable. Keep personal information in "encrypted" folders on your computer. Encryption scrambles the contents of your chosen folder so it cannot be read by anyone else. You can "unscramble" the contents using a password.

Many well-known software companies offer free downloads to help you with encryption, or encryption can be an option under your standard operating system. Consider installing "personal firewall" software on your computer to stop online intruders or "hackers" accessing information on your PC.

Back to top>>

AUTO CRIME - IMMOBILISERS

If you have a new car, the chances are it already has a car alarm or an immobiliser fitted. But if it doesn't, we've outlined some of the options open to you. Perhaps the single biggest reason for the drop in thefts of newer cars in recent years is the standard fitting of alarms and immobilisers to all new vehicles.

Alarms are an deterrent to both car theft and theft from your vehicle. Electronic engine immobilisers are highly effective as they prevent the engine from actually starting. They are enough to put most car thieves off. You can even fit combined alarm and engine immobilising systems to older cars as well

The Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre (MIRRC), also known as Thatcham, has been testing and approving vehicle security systems since 1992. It publishes a list of approved products and systems, and recommends a category one system which includes it switching on automatically when you leave the car, an "anti-scan" key-code system and a battery backed-up siren.

If you already have an alarm but no immobiliser, don't worry. Engine immobilisers can also be fitted on their own and your alarm can be upgraded to "category one" if it doesn't already meet the Thatcham criteria. Whilst fitting a Thatcham approved system doesn't guarantee that your car won't be stolen, it will considerably reduce the risk. For details of approved systems call the Vehicle Security National Helpline on 0870 550 2006.

It is also important that alarm and engine immobilising systems are fitted properly to your car. The AA recommends installation by a Vehicle Systems Installation Board (VSIB) approved installer. Expect to pay around £120 for an engine immobiliser and more for a combined system.