Police have called on drivers to safeguard their vehicles after a spate of car thefts in recent weeks.

A police spokesman said that prevention and deterrence were the best ways to combat vehicle theft, and recommended a number of measures to thwart car thieves.

The spokesman said: “Keeping your doors locked is the first step in deterring a thief. It's good to get into the habit of double-checking that your vehicle's windows and doors are closed before leaving your car unattended.

“Never leave your keys in the ignition, and also, do not leave your car running, even if you're just going into a store for a quick errand. A running vehicle may be an easy target for a thief, especially if it is unattended or unlocked.

“Keep your windows closed completely. A thief can simply reach into your car through an open window taking what they can reach or unlocking the door to gain full access to your vehicle and everything in it.”

The spokesman also recommended motorists avoid parking in poorly lit or isolated places.

“Parking under a light and in a well-trafficked area may deter a thief if they know they can easily be seen,” he said.

“It is recommended that you install an audible alarm system, if your car did not come with one. The noise emitted by an audible alarm if someone attempts to enter the vehicle, often the car's horn, attracts attention that may chase off a potential thief.”

The spokesman also had specific advice for owners of motorcycles, which are most frequently taken from car parks in Hamilton, but also from residential neighbourhoods.

The spokesman said: “Typically, motorcycles are stolen for joy riding, stripping of their parts or in some instances, engaging in criminal activity.

“Again, always remove keys from the ignition, even if you intend on being away from your bike for only a short time.

“Remember to always use a secondary lock, that is, in addition to the handlebar lock. Where possible, the secondary lock should be used to attach the motorcycle to a fixed object.”